Besides being Christmas Eve, December 24 holds an important place in the heart of Mumbai's Catholic community for another reason. It is the birthday of Cardinal Oswald Gracias, the Archbishop of Bombay. He celebrated his 75th birthday at the Archbishop's House in Colaba on Tuesday amid followers, friends, well-wishers and
parishioners.

After the blessing ceremony in the courtyard at 12 noon, some of the Archbishop's friends, such as Father Tony who has known him for long, said a few words inside the main hall. This was followed by a chorus of "Happy birthday to you" while the Cardinal cut the cake, and some fun activities and games between staffers. Speaking to mid-day amid his birthday celebrations, Cardinal Oswald Gracias stressed on the importance of having an inter-religious dialogue, and the responsibilities that come with being "men of service."