Christian Community Leaders Extend Gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, Applaud Vision for the Nation

In a festive celebration at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, the official residence of the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi interacted with the Christian community on Christmas. The event included an address by the Prime Minister, choir performances by schoolchildren, and an exchange of thoughts with prominent individuals from the Christian community.

Wishing everyone, especially the Christian community, a Merry Christmas, PM Modi expressed gratitude for the Indian Minority Foundation’s initiative to celebrate Christmas together. Reflecting on his longstanding warm relations with the Christian community, he recalled frequent meetings held during his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister.

Highlighting the significance of Christmas, PM Modi emphasized that it is not just a day to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ but also an occasion to reflect on his life, message, and values. He underscored the values of compassion and service that Jesus exemplified, noting that these values illuminate the path of India’s development journey.

Key individuals who participated in the interaction included Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop Anil Couto, The Rev. Dr Paul Swarup, John Varghese, Anju Bobby George, and others.

Cardinal Oswald Gracias thanked PM Modi for his presence and drew parallels between the teachings of Jesus Christ and the vision for good governance, citing the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Anju Bobby George, a renowned sports icon, commended the transformation in Indian sports, attributing it to initiatives like Khelo India and Fit India.

Rev. Dr Paul Swarup expressed gratitude for celebrating Christmas with the Prime Minister and drew parallels between the sacrifices of Jesus Christ and PM Modi’s efforts for society.

John Varghese, Principal of St. Stephen’s College, praised the Prime Minister’s vision reflected in the National Education Policy, emphasizing its local and global impact.

Archbishop Anil Couto thanked PM Modi for organizing Christmas celebrations, considering it a national feast, and wished for the well-being of all citizens.

The event saw participants expressing their admiration for PM Modi’s leadership style, dedication to change, and contributions to India’s development on both national and global platforms.

Alukkas Joy Verghese, Chairman of Joyalukkas Group, admired the Prime Minister’s down-to-earth, simple, and friendly personality.

Kurian Varghese, an NRI businessman from Bahrain, praised PM Modi’s efforts to project a positive image of India globally, extending beyond Gulf countries.

Actor Dino Morea lauded PM Modi’s significant contribution to India’s development, expressing confidence that the nation, along with its people, is moving in the right direction.

Ashwin Jerome Fernandes, Regional Director at QS Quacquarelli Symonds, praised PM Modi’s magnanimous leadership worldwide, creating a substantial appeal for India.

Kevin J. Kimtis, Second Secretary at the Embassy of The Holy See Vatican, emphasized PM Modi’s dedication to serving the Indian people as a government priority.

Bishop Simon John expressed immense happiness at the historic gesture of a Prime Minister inviting the Christian community to celebrate Christmas at his residence for the first time.

Anthony Jacob, CEO of Apollo 24*7, recognized PM Modi as a kind-hearted human being and thanked him for the opportunity to interact.

Sunny Joseph, Administrator of Christ University, expressed delight at the opportunity, acknowledging the Prime Minister’s vision for the future and uplifting message.

Yakub Mathew, MD of Wells Fargo Bank, Delhi, praised PM Modi’s leadership style, characterized by a demand for positive change.

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Overall, the interaction celebrated the spirit of Christmas and reflected on shared values of peace, love, and unity.