Jamshedpur, December 20: Loyola School, Jamshedpur, was filled with radiant cheer and festive splendour as the entire campus came together to celebrate the blessed spirit of Christmas. The celebration unfolded like a beautiful tapestry, woven with soul-stirring prayers, melodious songs, vibrant class decorations, and heart-warming acts that reflected the true joy of giving.
The programme began with a prayer service led by Fr. Vinod Fernandes, S.J., Principal, invoking peace, harmony, and God’s blessings upon the entire Loyola family. Students guided the assembly into a reflective and prayerful mood through hymns of love and compassion, each note echoing the values of unity and togetherness deeply cherished at Loyola.
The atmosphere resonated with melodious Christmas carols rendered by the school choir. A major highlight of the morning was the beautifully coordinated Nativity Play, presented with grace and reverence, conveying the timeless message of faith, love, and universal brotherhood.
Adding to the joy of the celebration was the much-awaited arrival of the beloved and timeless icon of Christmas—Santa Claus. Beyond the red robes and jingling bells, Santa symbolised the true Christian spirit of love, compassion, selfless service, spreading laughter, and the joy of giving without expectation.
On the occasion, the Rector, Fr. Mike T. Raj, S.J. warmly appreciated the students for their commendable performances, dedication, and team spirit. He encouraged them to spread joy, remain sensitive to the needs of others, and become messengers of peace and hope in society, emphasising that Christmas is not merely a festival but a way of life rooted in goodness and service to humanity.
The celebration concluded on a hopeful note, with warm wishes for peace, harmony, and renewal in the coming year, filled with promise, purpose, and God’s abundant blessings. The vote of thanks was delivered by the Principal, who lauded the students for their efforts and extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to all.
The festive spirit continued with the inauguration of the newly constructed handball court, a sport introduced by the American Jesuits in 1948, by Fr. Mike T. Raj, S.J. Handball, an iconic sport at Loyola, was warmly welcomed back on campus after a gap of eight years, much to the delight of alumni.
This was followed by the blessing of the new cricket pitch by Fr. Vinod Fernandes, S.J., who expressed sincere gratitude to the alumni for their generous contribution in constructing both the handball court and the cricket pitch.
