Shillong, Dec 20: The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly on Friday organised a Pre-Christmas prayer service and celebration at its new premises in Mawdiangdiang, New Shillong.
The programme was attended by Speaker Thomas A Sangma, Deputy Speaker Limison D Sangma, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, cabinet ministers, MLAs, government officials and staff.
The prayer service began with a scripture reading from the Holy Bible by. A. Sangma, Manager, Assembly Press. Special musical performances were presented by the Children of God’s Dream Children’s Home, Lumshyiap, Langkyrding, the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Choir, and the Mahila Band of the Nagaland Police or the 15th NAP (IR) Mahila Band, an acclaimed all-female police band from Nagaland that gained national recognition as finalists on India’s Got Talent (IGT) Season 10 in 2023.
Neil Vimal Kumar, Speaker and Ministry Director, Life Focus Society, Chennai, shared the Christmas message and offered prayers on the occasion.
In his welcome address, Andrew Simons, Commissioner and Secretary, Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, said that Christmas serves as a reminder of the timeless values of love, peace, compassion and humanity. He stated that the message of Jesus Christ symbolises hope for humanity and calls upon all to serve one another with kindness and selflessness, fostering harmony and brotherhood in society. He added that the celebration was an opportunity to reflect on these values and renew commitment towards spreading joy, understanding and unity.
The Speaker said it was a moment of great joy and privilege to celebrate Christmas at the new Meghalaya Legislative Assembly premises. He said Christmas is a season of reflection and renewal that reminds people of God’s love and encourages everyone to extend kindness, understanding and compassion to others. He expressed hope that the light of Christ would guide thoughts, choices and service to society, and thanked the Members of the 11th Meghalaya Legislative Assembly for attending the programme.
The Deputy Speaker said that in Meghalaya, Christmas is not only a religious festival but an integral part of the social fabric of the state. He observed that while Christmas has deep religious roots, over time it has evolved into a universal celebration of joy, love and hope, inspiring people to share kindness, generosity and care for those in need.
