St Aloysius College (Autonomous) organized an interfaith Christmas celebrations on 17 December 2018 at L F Rasquinha Hall. Rev. Fr Derick D’Souza, Director of Divine Mercy Retreat Centre, Dr G.G. Laxman Prabhu, Neurologist, KMC, Mangaluru and Prof. Hydrali, Govt. First Grade College, Bantwal were the guest speakers.

The celebration was inaugurated by the guests by installing statues into the crib. Students enacted birth of Jesus Christ through a drama. They also created a festive mood by singing carols and dancing to the lively beats.

Fr Derick D’Souza in his speech said, "We call Dharma as religion which accepts everything. The word religion is derived from ‘relegare’ which means sending to a lower level or not accepting anything. Actually Dharma is not a religion, as per the Vedas and Hindu scriptures, Dharma means to accept all good, moral and wonderful things. There is no translation to Dharma is any language except Sanskrit.” When we see God within us, we can see God in others too. Every religion shows the reflection of God. He further said, “God did not divide us but unified us, but we divided God. Let the celebration of joy bring happiness to those who are in need.”

Prof. Hydrali said, "Christian community is at the forefront in imparting education to the masses. They have taught us English language which has a competitive advantage. Four important aspects like skill, knowledge, health and values are imparted in Christian institutions making an individual a complete personality.” India is a country of unique diversity. He further said that, Jesus is the mighty messenger of God. His name has been mentioned in Quran 25 times. Quran respects Mariam as the chastiest woman in the world. ‘Love each other’ is the common message given by Quran, Bible and Gita. He also said that Christian women grow Jasmine and the same will be sold by Muslims and offered by Hindus in temples. “St Aloysius College earlier celebrated Eid, Diwali and now Christmas and such programmes will bring all faiths together promoting citizens to live in harmony and peace,” he added.

KMC neurologist, Dr Laxman Prabhu said, “It’s been a privilege to be part of this Christmas celebration. During our younger days, we were excited about Christmas celebrations because our mindset was fixed that Christmas means cake. This is the celebration of joy where good message is imparted.” He congratulated the organisers for arranging such a meaningful programme. He urged the students to practise Dharma which is a learning experience for all human beings.

Principal of St Aloysius College Dr Praveen Martis congratulated all the students and their effort in bringing out the message of Christmas. He further said “Divine becoming human and human becoming divine. God came down to earth and lifted us up. The real meaning of the celebration of Christmas is sharing and caring one another.”

Coordinator Anup Denzil Veigas welcomed the gathering and student council president Relston proposed the vote of thanks. Sonal Lobo introduced the guests. Joyston and Smitha compered the cultural events.