The Advent season has commenced with lighting of one of the five candles of the season, across churches in the twin cities. In some churches elders and children were allowed to light the candles in preparation for Christmas.Rev. P. Amar Kumar, of HRC, explained, “The Advent wreath holds fourcandles, each representing a week of Advent. A fifth candle, the Christcandle, is often added in the centre and lit on Christmas eve or onChristmas. Traditionally, the candles are purple for three weeks and laterpink symbolizing joy and hope. Christian worship services typically focus onthe themes of hope, prophecy, repentance and the anticipation of Christ’sbirth,” he said.At the All Saints’ Church in Trimulgherry, the season of advent started withUnited Carols competitions for local churches, 25 of whom participated, tocelebrate the festive spirit through music, song, and communityparticipation. The event aims to promote fellowship and unity, while alsohighlighting the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of Christmas. Thecarols were in English, Hindi, Telugu and Tamil. The groups came up withtheme dressing.Samuel Naik, organising committee member, said, “United Carols was foundedin 1990 by Rev. Dr. G. John Hamilton. It was discontinued a decade back. Wehave revived it this year. All Saints’ Church, Trimulgherry intends tocontinue this cherished tradition of joy and celebration.”Robin Michael, organising committee member, said “The competition featuredgroup singing performances. Nightingales of St Francis Church bagged firstprize, followed by Baptist Church, Vanasthalipuram, Wesley Tamil Church,Clock Tower and Holy Cross Church, Dammaiguda.”Julisha Moraes, of Nightingales of St Francis Church, said, “We are a groupof 24 members. These types of competitions boost our enthusiasm.”Hannah Nayanika from Baptist Church, Vanasthalipuram, said, “Points weregiven on parameters like dressing, voice and coordination.”
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