Christmas was celebrated across the country with great fervor and heartfelt devotion, showcasing the vibrant culture of the country’s Christian community.
Prayer services were organized in different cities, worshipers were gathered and prayed for peace, security and development of the country.
The main event was held at St. Patrick’s Church in Karachi, which was attended by a large number of believers. Elaborate security arrangements were made at various churches across the city to ensure a safe and peaceful celebration.
Lahore celebrated with a 100-pound cake, which was cut at St. Luke’s Church in Shahdara. Similar incidents took place in Bahawalpur, Quetta, Multan, Sargodha and Lodhran where churches organized prayer gatherings under tight security.
Meanwhile, 1,300 police personnel ensured the security of churches as the community celebrated the day with religious fervor in Multan.
A comprehensive security plan was implemented in Lodhran, with walk-through gates and CCTV cameras installed in churches.
On this occasion, President Asif Ali Zardari said that the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees the fundamental rights of all citizens irrespective of their religion.
He said that protection of the rights of all citizens is necessary for national unity and development.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in his message on the occasion of Christmas extended his heartiest greetings to all the people celebrating in the country and around the world.
The Prime Minister emphasized the profound teachings of Jesus (PBUH), especially his message of peace, love and compassion, urging all to reflect on these enduring values.
“Jesus preached enduring values like compassion, kindness, mercy and wisdom, guided people to a virtuous life and exhorted them to seek divine mercy,” the prime minister said.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to uphold the rights of all religious communities, the Prime Minister emphasized that Pakistan is committed to fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding. “We will continue to ensure that every individual, regardless of their faith, can freely practice their beliefs and contribute to the collective development of our nation,” he added.
The Prime Minister prayed that this Christmas may bring joy and blessings to every home and that the coming year may be filled with hope, peace and success for our beloved country and its people.
Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) also congratulated the Christians on the occasion.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur highlighted the important role of minorities, especially the Christian community, in the development of the country and affirmed their equal rights as guaranteed by the Constitution.
The celebrations highlighted the unity and partnership of the Christian community in the country, as they joined millions around the world in celebrating this special day with devotion and joy.