Santa Claus arrives early in Kashmir, 125-year-old church restored to original glory ahead of Christmas

A 125-year-old church called St. Lukes which was shut for the last 30 years in Jammu and Kashmir will again reverberate with Christmas carols and prayers.

Srinagar: With Christmas around the corner, Santa has already arrived with a gift for the Christian community living in Srinagar. A 125-year-old church called St. Lukes was shut for the last 30 years and in a dilapidated condition. The church after three decades will again reverberate with Christmas carols and prayers.

The Christian community living in the valley are excited and happy that the church has been restored. St. Lukes Church was established in the year 1896 by two men called Arthur and Ernest Neve. The church is a great example of composite culture of the Kashmir Valley which dates back to centuries. 

''The government asked us everything they should be doing. It was only done after consultations with us. We are all very happy and it's like a dream come true. And not only for Christians but  I think the locals who live around the area are happy that the church will have prayers again. The church was established in 1896 and it shows the history of Christianity in Kashmir. A lot of people don't know that Christians live in Kashmir but they are also surprised. With this the message of brotherhood is sent across. There would be a service over there on Christmas. We will have carol service and prayer there," said Reverend Eric in Srinagar.