Prime Minister attends parliamentarians Christmas celebration

The country's parliamentarians yesterday celebrated the advent season with a function that had Prime Minister Manmohan Singh as the chief guest.

The function, hosted by former Union minister Dhanushkodi Athithan, was attended by noted union ministers, MPs and leaders of church bodies.

On the occasion, several renditions of cherished Christmas carols were presented by the Delhi Mizo Choir, Aroha Choir, Isaac Joe and Manick Deep Masih.

In his address, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Christmas was a "festival of life and celebrates the oneness of humanity."

"Let the spirit of Christmas illuminate our hearts and bring to each one of us joy, peace and happiness," said the Prime Minister.

"Christianity is a very precious part of our civilization and culture. On this occasion, I would like to recall the enormous contributions of Christians in social service, education and health care," he continued. "It is this spirit which I feel is unique among men and women of Christian faith."

The Prime Minister concluded his speech with a prayer that "Christ may change and help each one us to be true and patriotic citizens in this great land."

A special prayer was made for the President, Prime Minister and parliamentarians by Evangelist Rajkumar Ramachandran.

Like in the past five years, this year as well the Parliamentarians Christmas Celebration was sponsored by the Indo Christian Chamber of Commerce.