Date:23/12/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/23/stories/2008122352510300.htm

Andhra Pradesh

An air of festivity pervades oldest church

Correspondent

BHIMAVARAM: ‘Rupantara Devalayam, the oldest church in the town, has been spreading the message of Jesus Christ for the past 113 years. It was constructed with the financial aid extended by American missionaries. A major part of the construction cost was borne by American pastor Maker who donated his entire property.

The construction was completed in one year.

The ‘Rupantara Devalayam’ is centrally located in the town.

The church is always abuzz with activity and the message Christ is being spread from it since its inception.

During the month of Christmas, prayers and musical concerts are arranged for 10 days. This year all the programmes in the church are being conducted under the stewardship of Rev. P. Theophilas, pastor of the church.

Rev. P. Theophilas has said the message of Christ is being spread for the welfare of the entire world.

According to him, Jesus Christ was born to protect the people and His blessings will help the mankind.

People all over the world celebrate Christmas to get the blessings of Christ and lead a happy and prosperous life.