Christmas Spirit Shines Across Pakistan
News Desk
Islamabad: Christmas is being celebrated with enthusiasm across Pakistan, as Christians and other communities come together to mark the occasion. From Karachi to Peshawar, the spirit of the season is reflected in religious services, community events, and national unity.
Here’s a closer look at the various celebrations that took place across the country:
A Vibrant Display of Lights & Joy
In Karachi, Christian communities celebrated Christmas with fervor. Churches were adorned with colorful lights, and prayers were offered for Pakistan’s prosperity and peace. Saint Patrick’s Church stood out with its beautifully decorated Christmas tree, glowing with sparkling ornaments. Streets and neighborhoods echoed the festive spirit, with vibrant decorations reflecting the season’s joy.
Honoring Centuries-Old Christmas Traditions
Lahore embraced the centuries-old tradition of decorating Christmas trees, a custom dating back to the 17th century. The influence of Martin Luther’s vision of starlit trees was evident in the decorations at historic churches, including the Naulakha Church.
Reverend Dr. Majid Abel, the head of Naulakha Church, described Christmas as the “greatest festival,” emphasizing its significance for all. Bells, electric lights, and shimmering stars adorned the Christmas trees, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
In Islamabad, Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal attended a special Christmas ceremony, extending his greetings to the Christian community.
The event featured cake cutting and the distribution of cash gifts among Christian employees of the ministry. Kamal praised the Christian community’s contributions to Pakistan’s development, underscoring the importance of national unity and partnership.
Scenic Celebrations in the Hills
The hill station of Murree attracted Christian tourists who gathered to celebrate Christmas amidst the scenic backdrop. Events took place at multiple venues, including a special ceremony at St. Denys Girls’ College. The 150-year-old Holy Trinity Church completed its festive decorations, adding to the charm of the occasion.
Peshawar’s Christmas celebrations were marked by interfaith harmony, with Muslims joining their Christian neighbors in the festivities. Prayers for national security, peace, and unity were offered, along with tributes to the sacrifices made by the armed forces. Cake-cutting ceremonies followed, reflecting the spirit of togetherness and shared national pride.
PM Shehbaz’s Christmas Message
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to the Christian community, emphasizing the values of peace, brotherhood, and love for humanity.
Reflecting on the teachings of Jesus Christ, he called for unity and compassion in addressing Pakistan’s challenges. The prime minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of religious communities and wished for a blessed Christmas season.
Spreading Joy and Generosity
The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) hosted a Christmas event in Walton, Lahore, where party leaders, including General Secretary Shoaib Siddiqui, cut a Christmas cake and distributed gifts to Christian families. Siddiqui also announced plans to provide rations to 1,000 Christian households in Cantonment areas, further emphasizing the party’s commitment to welfare and public service.
Security and Solidarity for Christmas
Security arrangements were stepped up in Punjab and Balochistan to ensure a safe and joyous Christmas. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz issued orders for enhanced security around churches and prayer ceremonies, while special discounts were offered to the Christian community.
In Balochistan, Governor Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhel ordered increased security personnel to ensure peaceful celebrations, especially in Quetta.
A Worldwide Spirit of Peace
Across the globe, Christmas was celebrated with grandeur. In Beijing, Catholics held prayer gatherings, while in Jakarta, hundreds of Indonesians lit candles and sang hymns.
In Bethlehem, children called for ceasefires in their rallies, holding Palestinian and Vatican flags. Venice saw Santa Claus leading a boat parade, and Santa from Finland embarked on a global gift-giving journey.
Cairo and Dubai saw festive markets and winter festivals, spreading the message of peace and joy worldwide.
This Christmas, Pakistan and the world celebrated not only the birth of Jesus Christ but also the universal values of unity, peace, and goodwill.
The festive season brought people together, reinforcing the spirit of love and harmony that transcends borders and communities.
