GEORGE TOWN: Christians regardless of backgrounds and nationalities are not left out of Christmas celebration this year at the Church of Divine Mercy in Sungai Ara here.
Dressed in glitzy clothing for the occasion, almost 500 members of the church turned up for Christmas Eve mass at about 5.30pm on Friday (Dec 24).
Parish priest Fr Michael Raymond who conducted the service said the church had to open up classrooms to make space and cater for those present after its main hall was filled to its limit of 350 people at one time.
“The members for this session are mostly migrant workers from neighbouring countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Philippines, who are working at nearby factories.
“Besides the bilingual service, today’s highlight will be a 30-minute choir performance titled ‘Sounds Of Asia’.
“We are happy to celebrate this festival with all,” he said.
They also offered prayers to those affected by the recent floods and that they receive all necessary assistance.
Michael, however, noted that unlike Christmas Eve masses conducted before the pandemic, this year’s will not include sessions for fellowship and giving out food.
Later at 10pm, another session of mass is expected to attract more locals.
“There will be narration, singing of carols on the birth of Christ and cantata ceremony to get them into the spirit of Christmas,” he said.