Patnaik attended the programme, which was organized by the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, along with Cuttack Barabati MLA Debasish Samantaray and Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation Ananta Narayan Jena.

Patnaik and the dignitaries were received by the Santa Claus and children amid songs of Christmas.

“Indeed our State is extremely fortunate and proud to have you as our Chief Minister and I have no hesitation to say that under your leadership we the Christian community are very encouraged by your determination to ensure our safety and security,” said Archbishop John Barwa, S.V.D in his welcome speech.

The CM cut the Christmas cake and wished the people of the sate a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

“I am very happy to be with you in this festive season and I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,” said Patnaik, who attended the Christmas programme at the Roman Catholic Church for the third time.