Peace and acceptance will be the message on Christmas in times of conflict and anxiety, said priests across city churches. True peace begins when we choose understanding over hatred, compassion over indifference, and dialogue over violence,” said Father Sandip Michael Biswas, parish priest of St Thomas’ Church on Middleton Row. At St Thomas’ Church, the celebration will begin with carol singing at 11.30pm, followed by the Christmas vigil service at midnight. In the troubled times all over the world, everyone is longing for peace,” said Father Basil Mandi, parish-priest, St Teresa’s Church. St Thomas’ Church on Middleton Row will close at noon on Thursday because “it is difficult to manage” the thousands who visit the church on Christmas evening.

Source: The Telegraph December 24, 2025 02:19 UTC