Houses on the road decked up with brilliant stars, Xmas trees,  small Nativity shrines illuminated by candles –Goa is a pretty pretty sight on Xmas eve Had attended the Midnight Mass at a tiny chapel a stone’s throw away from my guesthouse – green Goa is peppered with chapels, temples!

 

As midnight drew nearer “dear-beloveds”, suited- gowned, quietly drew to the chapel. The distinct difference between such a gathering and that of our Hindu festivals is that of the decibel level – the gathering was SO peaceful. No rush, no push. Always loved the hymns, the psalm-singing choir regardless of the language  – lifts you into another world, their lilting voice Tried figuring out the Konkani speech of the priest – mostly revolved around the recent terrorist acts. The mood was solemn.

 

Towards the end, the Happy Birthday song (Konkani) was sung (:)) followed by the cake distribution – that’s the sole purpose of attending these occasions is it not The altar boys were distributing a thin round wafer as well. Slowly the crowd disbursed, wishing known-unknown  “Merry Christmas”.

 :)