Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Monday commended Christians for their commitment to 'suffering humanity' as he partook the Parliamentarians Christmas Get Together Dinner in New Delhi.
"Christmas is a festival of joy, love and friendship. During this occassion as I greet every Christian I want to thank them for their commendable services to the nation," said the Prime Minister as he extended his Christmas greetings at the function attended by a host distinguished guests.
"I urge you to continue working together, promoting brotherhood and aiding the suffering humanity," pleaded Singh after he cut a cake and was presented with a Bible from Indo International Christian Chamber of Commerce.
The function at 7-B, Janpath, was attended by several church leaders including Archbishop of Delhi Vincent Concessao, Papal Nuncio Archbishop Pedro Lopez and Rev. Richard Howell, head of the Evangelical Fellowship of India.
Among noted politicians was Chief Minister of Assam Tarun Gogoi, Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor, senior Congress leader Oscar Fernandes and vice-chairman of the National Commission for Minorities (NCM) and former Lok Sabha member HT Sangliana.
"The spirit of Christianity has influenced many faiths. Gandhi, the father of our nation, was a very ardent believer of Bible. Much of his ideologies were impressed by Jesus," said Tharoor, who praised Christians for tremendous contributions even though being a small minority.
Addressing the gathering, Sangliana, a Christian, apprised the need for love which he said was strongly preached and practiced by Jesus Christ.
"As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we must remember that it is this love that has brought us together. India needs this love which transformed northeast 120 years back. Love is the instrument of bonding, and a strong nation can be formed by this love," said Sangliana.
A short Christmas sermon was delivered by Pastor Shekhar Kallianpur, senior pastor of New Life Fellowship Mumbai. He preached that in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, the birth of Jesus Christ can bring a message of hope and love for India.
The splendid function also included enchanting music by gospel singer Anil Kant and concluded with a gala dinner sponsored by Dhanushkodi Athithan, ex-MP.