by Inez D'Cunha
Daijiworld Media Network
Abu Dhabi, Dec 8 : Christmas is a celebration of love and this year’s annual Christmas Bazaar held at St. Joseph’s Parish, Abu Dhabi on 7th December 2012, was a reflection of the true spirit of Christmas. The entire parish comprising of people of different nationalities came together to express solidarity with the theme, “We Will Build”.The 26th Christmas Bazaar aimed at raising funds for the construction of the new church.
Bishop Paul Hinder inaugurated the bazaar amidst great joy and excitement. Fr. Savarimuthu welcomed the gathering. Parishioners, irrespective of their nationality, came together as one big family, driven by the urge to raise funds for a noble cause.
All the parish priests and sisters of St Joseph’s graced the occasion. They were honoured with floral bouquets. An exceptionally large crowd had gathered for the inauguration. The organizing committee headed by Dolphy Vas spared no efforts in making the day a grand success.
The dramatic arrival of Santa Clause was the most exciting moment of the day. Every year the organizing committee comes up with brilliant ideas of presenting Santa and this year in keeping with the theme, Santa arrived on a forklift with gifts that would aid the building of the new church. The bishop received a red helmet and the parish priest Fr. Savarimuthu received a green spade!
The entire event was co-hosted by Perviz D’Souza, Andrew Alvares and Adrian Fonceca who kept the day rocking.
Circle of Hands choir, followed by the Children’s Choir lead by Mrs. Cyrila Sebastian. flagged off the day with their heartwarming carols.
The entire church premises was transformed into a Christmas wonderland. Exciting games ranged fromMini golf, Spin-a-win, Hook n Shoot, Ring toss, Pick & win, crashing the pyramid, building a pyramid, horse race, basketball and many more. There was home cooked food galore from Korea, Philippines, Nigeria, Italy, France, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, India, Poland and Lebanon.It was interesting to see people trying out food that they would usually not get a chance to savor.
Young and budding talents were given a chance to perform on stage. There was variety entertainment comprising of dances, carol singing and Christmas tableau depicting the birth of Jesus Christ. The carol singing by the Philippines community is worth mentioning. It was simply amazing.
The Bazar concluded amidst great excitement with the draw of 22 grand prizes. Dolphy Vas appreciated all the voluntary hard work of the parishioners and thanked all the people who helped in making the day a thumping success. Bishop Paul Hinder blessed the gathering.