Archbishop Antonysamy Appeals for Peace and Fraternity at Public Christmas Event in Chennai

Chennai, December 17, 2025 — Calling for an end to war, religious discrimination, and social exclusion, Archbishop George Antonysamy of Madras–Mylapore on Tuesday said the celebration of Christmas must inspire people to work actively for peace, harmony, and shared human dignity in an increasingly divided world.

Speaking after inaugurating a 30-foot Christmas tree at the National Shrine of St Thomas Cathedral Basilica, the Archbishop said the illuminated tree symbolises light and renewed strength amid uncertainty and conflict. He stressed that the Christian celebration of Christmas is not merely festive but carries a social message that calls for fraternity, reconciliation, and compassion at both national and global levels.

Archbishop Antonysamy said Christmas invites society to rediscover peace, joy, and hope, and challenges individuals and communities to become instruments of brotherhood and unity. Emphasising the value of mutual respect, he urged people of all backgrounds to contribute positively to society by nurturing solidarity and rejecting divisions rooted in religion, caste, or conflict.

Expressing hope for the Advent and Christmas season, the Archbishop said the Christian belief in redemption calls believers to share peace with others and to work for a more inclusive and humane social order. He added that true celebration finds meaning when it strengthens bonds of understanding and promotes the dignity of every person.

A brief prayer service preceded the illumination of the Christmas tree, which was formally blessed by the Archbishop. The inauguration was attended by Vincent Chinnadurai, rector and parish priest of the National Shrine of St Thomas Cathedral Basilica, along with clergy and members of the Archdiocese of Madras–Mylapore.

By Catholic Connect Reporter