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For the majority of the faithful, it was a Christmas largely marked by indoor activities
Keeping Covid-19 at an arm’s distance, the faithful in the UAE found ways to add cheer to their unusual Christmas in the new normal world.
The celebrations began with holy masses at the churches seeking reprieve from this infection. At the St Joseph’s Cathedral in Abu Dhabi, Bishop Paul Hinder, Apostolic Vicar of the Vicariate of Southern Arabia, led the service and delivered the Christmas message. Overall, there were 22 services held at the cathedral with limited attendance of devotees and a live telecast through social media platforms.
Perking up the spirit, St George Cathedral telecasted an online carol narrating the story of Christmas through seven huge cribs created by the parishioners.
In his message, Vicar Father Benny Mathew stressed on the need for members of the community to follow precautionary measures until the fight against the virus is over.
“We all prayed for an end to this pandemic situation. We had restrictions on the number of parishioners allowed at the church. Majority took part in the mass from their homes. The church urges community members to continue taking safety measures like wearing masks, using hand sanitisers and maintaining a safe social distance. Let us not relax, but instead strive to defeat this pandemic by adhering to the health regulations set by the authorities,” said Father Mathew.
For the majority of believers, it was a Christmas largely marked by indoor activities.
Joy John, a resident, said the family joined together through video conferencing for a unique celebration. “My wife Jomit is a staff nurse and was at work till evening. My two sons and Jomit joined for Christmas ceremonies through Zoom. In the evening, we had a small get-together of three friends while taking all precautionary measures. We understand the risks from Covid-19 but it must not dampen our spirits,” John said.
Anish Thomas, another resident, set a timetable to host friends at home. “Christmas is a day of togetherness. We started celebrations from midnight but we were very responsible. Most of us take Covid-19 test every week. We kept ourselves at arm’s distance. I allowed only two friends at a time. We followed the mass online. It was a different but unique experience.”
Ashwani Kumar
I am a newspaperman from the emirate of Abu Dhabi. A journalist at heart. I get my stories from the streets. A south Indian born in the Hindi heartland, I easily connect with people from different nationalities and cultures. I am calm like a monk, sensitive and very patient reporter. On the ground, I cover a range of topics related to community, health, embassy, tourism, transport, business and sports. I will go out on a leg to do what’s right and stand by what I believe in.
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