GEORGE TOWN: Festive Christmas decorations and Yuletide carols welcomed parishioners at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Pulau Tikus during the parish’s Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, on Sunday night.
Attended by over 1,000 people, the inaugural event was held in the church’s courtyard, where a 5-metre Christmas tree frame, outlined with coloured lights, stood resplendent.
Applause and cheers greeted the lighting up of the tree, as the church’s choir led visitors in singing carols.
Gift wrapped presents were later distributed to young ones in the crowd.
Parish priest Reverend Father Jude Miranda described Christmas as a joyous celebration to welcome the birth of Christ – an event which unites Christians and other Malaysians.
“It is a great honour and pleasure for us to celebrate the spirit of Christmas in the company of our fellow parishioners, neighbours and friends.
“The spirit of Christmas can only be felt if we open our hearts to caring for one another, and sharing whatever little we may have,” he added.
Apart from singing Christmas carols, participating in games and indulging in cookie exchanges, parishioners were able to partake in a spot of festive shopping at a Christmas bazaar set up on the premises.