Sydney:

Christmas lights, with various themes, illuminated the facade of St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney on Thursday night as part of the launch of the annual Christmas at the Cathedral celebrations. Various festive programs, including musical performances, are scheduled in the cathedral from December 14 to December 25. Chris Minns, the New South Wales premier, attended the inauguration of the celebration.

The cathedral forecourt features a beautiful nativity scene. St Mary’s Cathedral choir performed on Friday, December 15. Sydney Archbishop Antony Fisher expressed his joy in a Facebook post, saying, "Friends, it was wonderful to see so many people on the opening night of Sydney’s favorite Christmas event, Christmas at the Cathedral, at St Mary’s Cathedral forecourt." “At a time when so many people in our world are struggling especially through conflict, poverty, forced migration, and with the high cost of living, may we find comfort and hope in the Mighty God, made Prince of Peace, whose innocent love conquers all our woes,” he stated.

Archbishop Fisher also noted that the cathedral and crypt would be open each evening for private prayer. St Mary's Cathedral, dedicated to the 'Immaculate Mother of God, Help of Christians,' was designed by Architect William Wardell, renowned for his architectural works in Australia, England, and Scotland.