BeNewz
Related Articles
Aftab Maken
Islamabad/Lahore/Karachi: Pakistan’s Christian community celebrated Christmas today with religious fervor, traditional joy, and messages of peace, love, and interfaith harmony. Churches across the country held special services, while homes and Christian neighborhoods were adorned with colorful lights and decorations. Despite heightened security arrangements, the festivities proceeded peacefully, emphasizing unity in diversity.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended Christmas greetings to the Christian community. The President described Christmas as a festival of hope and compassion that strengthens national solidarity. The Prime Minister praised the contributions of Christians to Pakistan’s progress, stating that the country is a shared home for all citizens.
In Lahore, churches and Christian areas sparkled with lights, continuing the Punjab government’s 12-day Christmas celebrations, which included interfaith harmony rallies and events like the Christmas Interfaith Cycling Heritage Ride. Under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s directives, a special “Christmas Cleaning Plan” ensured thorough sanitation of churches, colonies, and surrounding areas.
Karachi buzzed with Christmas markets, festivals, and community events. The Sindh government declared holidays on December 25 and 26, allowing extended celebrations, which church leaders hailed as an inclusive gesture promoting religious freedom.
Celebrations remained peaceful in Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta, and other cities, with police providing robust security around churches amid precautionary measures.
Nationwide, Christmas coincided with Quaid-e-Azam Day, a public holiday honoring Pakistan’s founder. Christians offered prayers for the country’s security and prosperity, reinforcing the festival’s role as a symbol of interfaith harmony.
