Rupesh Samant

Panaji, Dec 25: With the peeling of bells at various Churches, the faithful ushered in the Christmas festivities across the State on Tuesday night.
Goa has more than 27 per cent of its population following the Catholic faith.

The state was getting ready for the festivities since last fortnight as the markets were full of accessories required to decorate the homes.
The markets in Panaji, Margao, Mapusa, Vasco besides other places were abuzz with the people who were seen indulging in last-minute shopping for the festival.

As a part of the celebration, the cribs depicting the birth of Lord Jesus have been set up at homes by the faithful.
The youth have also put up larger than life-size cribs at different places across the state.
Meanwhile, Governor of Goa Satya Pal Malik has extended his heartiest greetings and best wishes to the people of Goa on the occasion of Christmas.

The Governor in his message has said on this day, we celebrate the birth of Lord Jesus Christ, who gave us the eternal message of peace, tolerance, sacrifice, love and brotherhood. Christmas also reminds us of the importance of giving and sharing with friends and family.

“It is a festival which people from all religions and faith celebrate worldwide irrespective of caste and creed. It is the essence of this festival which unites all the people,” he added.

The Governor said, “ on this occasion, let us re-dedicate ourselves to put into practice the great message of Lord Jesus Christ to live in peace, strengthening bonds, and work together for the prosperity and glory of our society”.