CHENNAI: Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on Tuesday announced financial assistance for Christians, who undertake pilgrimage to the holy land of Jerusalem. Jayalalithaa announced this during the AIADMK-organised Christmas celebrations in the city. “The scheme will be applicable to all sections of the Christian community. Initially, this assistance will be given to 500 Christians this year,” the CM said amid applause from the audience comprising bishops and pastors at Laity Auditorium in Kilpauk.Recalling that providing financial assistance for the Jerusalem pilgrimage was one of the promises made by her last year when she celebrated Christmas at Arumanai in Kanyakumari district, Jayalalithaa assured that she would fulfil other demands of the community in the coming days. Citing the ideals practised by Jesus Christ, the CM said that Christ was all compassionate, even to his enemies. “Christ pleaded for mercy even for those who were responsible for his crucifixion. By forgiving someone, not only the person who forgives but also the person who is forgiven also rises…all should live without the feeling of taking revenge.”Appreciating the songs rendered by the students of Church Park Convent, which is her alma mater, the CM said the songs brought back memories of her school days when she too had sang similar Christmas songs.The celebrations lasted for 100 minutes in which prayer songs were sung by school students and others. Jayalalithaa cut the Christmas cake and Archbishop AM Chinnappa offered a piece of cake to her. Bishop V Devasahayam and bishops from various parts of the state also took part.Almost all Ministers, AIADMK MLAs and other functionaries of the party attended the celebrations.Speaking on the occasion, former Assembly Speaker PH Pandian said “Amma is not governing the State for the sake of a family. She is governing for the sake of the larger family of Tamil Nadu. The loyalists of Amma will always abide by the actions taken by her for the welfare of the people and the State. “We were loyal to Puratchi Thalaivar MGR till his demise. We will continue to be loyal to Amma till our end comes.”Later, speaking at the celebrations, the Archbishop said it was a great privilege for him to offer cake to the CM and said he was doubtful whether he would get another opportunity like this. Jayalalithaa said indeed it was a great privilege for her get a piece of cake offered by the Archbishop.
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