Shillong Dec 24: As people in Christian-dominated state of Meghalaya waiting for Christmas Day to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, Meghalaya Governor, Tathagata Roy and Chief Minister, Conrad Kongkal Sangma have extended their greetings to the people of the state and wished all the citizens a very Merry Christmas.

On Christmas Eve on Monday, Christians especially Catholics attended Midnight Mass in their respective churches to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, besides attending churches on Christmas Day on Tuesday.

On Christmas Eve, both the Governor and Chief Minister have delivered their respective messages to the people of the state.

“On the happy and joyous occasion of Christmas, I wish the people of Meghalaya a Merry Christmas and hope that the spirit and warmth of Christmas will bestow enduring peace, brotherhood, prosperity and happiness in the life of every citizen of the state,” the Governor said in his message.

Similarly, the Chief Minister in his message said, “On the occasion of joyous occasion of Christmas, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to the people of the state. As we gather with our friends and families to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, let us imbibe the spirit of love, hope, peace compassion and forgiveness. May this season of goodwill brings bountiful blessings to all. I wish you all a Merry Christmas.”

During this festive season, houses were adorned with decorative lights and stars.

People also rushed to markets especially on the last day of the preparation for Christmas Day to buy goods including Christmas cakes.

People also used plastic Christmas trees in their compound while branches of natural pine trees are slowing diminishing since natural Christmas trees are not easily available.

The Christmas trees are decked with Christmas decorations and lights in front of many people’s houses as well as in their compound.

in the run up to Christmas Day, Christmas carols were also organized and in the last few days as well as on Christmas Eve.

Various organizations and Chrurch-based organizations were also pre-Christmas celebrations and distributed gift items to the poor families.