Goa celebrates Christmas amidst tight security

PANAJI: Amidst tight security arrangements, Goa celebrated Christmas with midnight masses being held at all Churches and Chapels across the state.
    
Midnight masses, celebrating the birth of Lord Jesus Christ, had a huge presence of devotees. Security was at an all-time high with mass attenders being screened through metal detectors.
    
About 30 per cent of Goa's population is Catholic.
    
Local police and para military forces were deployed at sensitive places and crowded spots. Goa is on high alert to avert any possible terror attack.
    
"The celebrations went peacefully," Superintendent of Police (CID) Atmaram Deshpande said.
    
The main mass was held at Basilica of Bom Jesus Church at Old Goa, about 10 km away from here which houses the relics of St Fransic Xavier.
    
The 26/11 Mumbai terror attack and demolition of Churches in Orissa and Karnataka were part of the main mass address by Archbishop Rev Fr Philipe Neri Ferrao.
    
"We pray for all those who suffered blows in the Mumbai terror attack last month. So many people died in the attack, which has left many households shattered," the Archbishop said, adding that people needed to give up hatred and learn to live in peace and harmony.
    
Referring to the incidents in Orissa and Karnataka, the Archbishop said, "The troubles that Catholic brethren had to face are not yet over as many are still staying in tents with their shelters being destroyed. On the occasion of Christmas, we show our concern to these brethren and support them," he said.