JUMAIKELA: On 15^th December 2013 at 11.00 am, the Volunteer Health Workers (VHW) assembled for Christmas gathering for the first time. It started with short prayer service followed by dance and songs.

Sr. Rose Kureekattu, the animator of the community in her Christmas message said, “Jesus’ first mission was to heal the sick.  In the same way you have volunteered yourself to serve people.  Acquire the attitude of Jesus and do everything with love and in the name of Jesus.”

Mr. Suresh Toppo, the supervisor of VHW then shared his own experience in preparing oneself to welcome baby Jesus at Christmas.  He said every evening they gathered in prayer and at the end of it every member kept aside a hand full of straw to prepare a beautiful stable for Jesus.  He categorized Christians into four groups.  He said, “I call the first group ‘New Christians’ because they come to Church only on Christmas Vigil to show their new clothes.  Second group is called seasonal Christians, they come to church for some occasions only.  The third group is known as Mendhak (frog) Christians.  The frogs make noise only during the rainy season.  In the same way the people who belong to this group come to the church only when something happens to their life.  And the fourth one is called regular visitors.  All of us can find ourselves in any one of these groups.  Let us become daily visitors of the Lord that He may find a worthy place in our heart when He comes at Christmas night.” The celebration was concluded with a festive meal prepared by the sisters.

Sr. Shanti Tirkey