Glittering Christmas Evening…

Offering gratitude galore, expressing greater joy at the holy occasion of Christmas, International Sai Children numbering 49 presented Children’s Christmas Choir at Bhagawan’s Lotus Feet this auspicious evening here in Prasanthi Nilayam. The Children Choir was followed by two speeches by International guest speakers followed by an audio relay of Bhagawan erstwhile Christmas Divine discourse.

Commencing the programme with Vedic incantation, invoking Primal Deities in typical Indian style, the programme that followed had the enigmatic story of the Divine Child, born under most mystically Divine surroundings in Bethlehem, encapsulated in a series of hymns.

Singing at a rhythmic pace, in a united voice, the International Sai Children spelt their hearts out in expression of love and gratitude to Beloved Mother Sai… and the final piece for the evening vouch for their intentions.

Swami We Adore You… Lay Our Lives Before You… How We Love You!!!

Conducted by Ms Gesine Strohmeier from Germany, who took over from the seasoned Alma Badings of The Netherlands, the Choir had 9 hymns, interspersed with commentary by the children. The songs were Veni Veni Immanuel (O Come Come Immanuel) talking of Immaculate Conception, Way To Jerusalem, Once in Royal David’s City (about the holy birth in the Manger), Silent Night…, King Of Kings and Lord Of Lords…, Little Drummer Boy…, We Three Kings Of Orient Are…, When A Child Is Born… to conclude with the Gratitude Song to Swami.

Jesus is a mystic enigma, Greater Heaven’s stamp of Love on the face of Earth and the International Sai Children rightly echoed the feeling of humanity, pouring out love and gratitude in a united voice.

Music accompaniment included Violin, Guitar, Keyboard and special African ‘Jemba’ by Sai Gith from Switzerland.

Seasoned Conductor over the years, Ms Alma Badings from The Netherlands was then felicitated by the International Christmas Committee in appreciation of her dedicated service to the International Children’s Choir.

Two speeches by two International guest speakers, Ms. Joyce Darlene Barker and Mr. Neville Fredricks, of Canada and Australia respectively, followed next.

Speaking first, Ms Joyce, author of 9 books on Swami, began with her childhood journey into Jesus and later unto Bhagawan Sathya Sai. Expounding on the essential message of Christmas,  Unity with Divinity – I and my Father Are One, the octogenarian speaker stressed on the importance of Embarking… embarking on the path of Self Enquiry, stressing on the importance of C-I-A, Constant Integrated Awareness, being the essence of spiritual enquiry. Baba Is my very Breath… my Reason… my Joy for living, concluded Joyce on a high note.

The next speaker Mr Neville Fredricks, Chairman for Zone 3 of Sri Sathya Sai International Organisations spoke on his personal story, speaking about his first meeting with Bhagawan at Whitefield on a beautiful, fateful evening. Where logic and reasoning gave way to faith and belief, it was a story of ‘head-to-heart’ transformation for the long time devotee of almost three decades.

An exhilarating Divine discourse, of Christmas 1999, was next aired in the public address system, with Bhagawan lucidly narrating the holy birth and related events. Bhagawan ended His Divine discourse with the song “Love Is My Form… Truth Is My Breath…”

Earlier, Tom Lahey, International Christmas Decorations Committee Director from Australia had the honour of introducing the session and speakers to the august assembly.

Bhajans continued and ended with Mangala Arathi at 1855 hrs.

II Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavantu II

Glittering Christmas Evening: A Celebration of Divine Love

Christmas at Prasanthi Nilayam was always a unique and sacred experience, bringing together devotees from different countries, cultures, and faiths. A Glittering Christmas Evening in the divine presence of Shri Sathya Sai Baba was not merely a festive gathering; it was a spiritual celebration filled with love, unity, and devotion.

The atmosphere of the ashram would transform into a scene of beauty and joy. Colorful lights illuminated the pathways, beautifully decorated Christmas trees adorned the premises, and melodious carols filled the air with a sense of peace and reverence. Devotees from around the world gathered with eager hearts, waiting for the arrival of Bhagawan. The entire environment reflected the true spirit of Christmas—selfless love and service to humanity.

A Glittering Christmas Evening became even more special when Sai Baba entered the Sai Kulwant Hall. His divine presence radiated compassion and bliss, touching every heart present. Devotees felt an indescribable sense of joy as they received His darshan. The festive decorations sparkled brightly, yet the greatest light was the spiritual illumination that emanated from Him.

The celebrations often included inspiring Christmas carols sung by international devotees. Choirs dressed in traditional festive attire offered songs glorifying the birth of Jesus Christ and the universal message of love. Sai Baba encouraged devotees to understand the deeper significance of Christmas rather than limiting it to external celebrations. He reminded everyone that Christ’s life exemplified sacrifice, purity, and unconditional love.

During His divine discourse, Bhagawan frequently emphasized that all religions lead to the same ultimate truth. He explained that Jesus taught humanity to love God and serve fellow beings with humility. These teachings resonated deeply with devotees, making the occasion spiritually enriching. The message delivered on a Glittering Christmas Evening inspired people to cultivate kindness, compassion, and faith in their daily lives.

The gathering was also a beautiful example of unity in diversity. People from different nations sat together as one family, sharing devotion and reverence. Differences of language, culture, and background disappeared in the presence of divine love. Such moments reflected Sai Baba’s vision of universal brotherhood and harmony among all faiths.

Many devotees recall these Christmas celebrations as unforgettable experiences. The devotional music, the festive decorations, the prayers, and above all, the divine presence of Bhagawan created memories that remain cherished for a lifetime. Every heart was filled with gratitude and spiritual joy.

Through the years, the message of Christmas as taught by Sai Baba continues to inspire seekers across the world. It reminds us that true celebration lies in expressing love, serving others, and recognizing the divinity present in every being. The memories of a Glittering Christmas Evening remain a shining example of how spiritual values can transform a festive occasion into a sacred journey toward God.

As shared through Devotional India, such divine moments continue to inspire devotees to follow the path of love and selfless service. The teachings associated with a Glittering Christmas Evening remain relevant today, encouraging humanity to live with compassion, unity, and devotion. Devotional India proudly preserves and shares these sacred memories for future generations.