Islamabad : Christmas was celebrated across Pakistan on Thursday as the Christian community marked the sacred occasion with prayers, reflection, and joyous traditions, standing in solidarity with believers worldwide.
The day began in a festive yet reverent atmosphere, with churches adorned with bright lights and decorated Christmas trees. Congregations gathered at churches to offer special prayers for peace, prosperity, and stability in the nation.
Enhanced security measures were in place around places of worship to ensure smooth and safe celebrations. In Karachi, members of the Christian community attended special services at churches throughout the city. St. Patrick’s Church in Saddar became a focal point of celebration, where worshippers actively participated in prayers and hymns, creating an environment of devotion and cheer.
Lahore also came alive as Christmas celebrations began at midnight. Churches were illuminated with colorful lights, drawing large crowds. The Cathedral Church near Regal Chowk hosted a significant congregation, offering prayers for the country’s development and collective progress. Another prominent gathering took place at St. Luke Cathedral Church in Shahdara, led by Father Irfan Yousaf. The ceremony featured the cutting of a 100-pound cake, and traditional Christmas carols filled the air. A fireworks display further added to the festive spirit.
Many participants expressed that Christmas embodies a message of love, harmony, peace, and mutual respect—values they believe are essential for strengthening unity within society.
On this occasion, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt greetings to Christian citizens in Pakistan and to Christian communities worldwide. In separate messages, both leaders described Christmas as a symbol of hope, compassion, and peace, reminding everyone of the ties that bind humanity together.
They also acknowledged the significant contributions of Christian citizens to Pakistan’s progress in various fields, including politics, national defense, education, literature, arts, music, healthcare, social welfare, and public service.
Reaffirming the state’s commitment, the president and prime minister reiterated the government’s dedication to promoting interfaith harmony, protecting fundamental rights and freedoms, supporting economic well-being, and ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens without discrimination based on religion, race, or ethnicity.
