Christmas was being observed in Pakistan and across the world with great fervour and grandeur on Wednesday (December 25).

– Karachi –

Christian communities in Pakistan were celebrating Christmas with religious enthusiasm. Churches in Karachi were adorned with lights, and prayer ceremonies took place for the country’s prosperity and peace.

Saint Patrick’s Church featured a decorated Christmas tree, glowing with sparkling stars and ornaments. Streets and neighbourhoods reflected the festive spirit with vibrant decorations.

– Lahore –

In Lahore, centuries-old traditions of decorating Christmas trees remained prominent.

The practice, dating back to the 17th century, originated when religious leader Martin Luther adorned a pine tree with stars and lights, inspired by the starlit sky.

Also Read: History and tradition of Christmas tree!

Churches, including the historic Naulakha Church, displayed beautifully decorated Christmas trees. Reverend Dr Majid Abel emphasised the significance of Christmas as the most joyful festival. Bells, stars, and electric lights added charm to the decorations.

– Islamabad –

Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal attended a Christmas ceremony in Islamabad to express solidarity with the Christian community.

He cut a Christmas cake and distributed cash gifts among Christian employees of the ministry. Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul Khawaja also participated in the event.

Jam Kamal praised the Christian community’s contributions to Pakistan’s development, and attendees acknowledged the ministry’s positive initiatives. The ceremony reinforced national harmony and partnership.

– Murree –

The preparations for Christmas in Murree reached their peak, with events continuing at multiple venues.

St. Denys Girls' College hosted a special ceremony, while the 150-year-old Holy Trinity Church completed its festive decorations.

The Christian tourists were flocking to Murree to celebrate the festival in the scenic hill station.

– Peshawar –

Interfaith harmony marked Christmas celebrations in Peshawar. Muslims joined their Christian brethren in the festivities and prayers for national security and peace.

The sacrifices of the armed forces were also honoured during the ceremonies. Prayers were offered for progress and unity, accompanied by cake-cutting ceremonies.

– PM Shehbaz greets Christian community –

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt greetings to Christian brothers and sisters on the joyous occasion of Christmas 2024.

In his message, the prime minister emphasised the importance of reflecting on the teachings of Christmas. He highlighted the message of peace, brotherhood, and love for humanity conveyed by Jesus Christ.

Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the enduring values of compassion, kindness, mercy, and wisdom preached by Jesus Christ. He reiterated the government's commitment to protecting and respecting the rights of religious communities.

The prime minister expressed his hopes and prayers for Christmas to bring happiness and blessings to every home.

Shehbaz Sharif concluded his message by wishing a joyous Christmas to all.

– IPP's Christmas event –

The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) organised a Christmas event at Walton, hosted by Lahore Vice President Mian Akram Mehar

IPP General Secretary Shoaib Siddiqui attended as the chief guest, cutting a Christmas cake and distributing gifts and rations among Christian families.

Siddiqui announced plans to deliver rations to 1,000 Christian households in Cantonment areas and highlighted the party’s welfare initiatives under Abdul Aleem Khan. He reiterated IPP’s commitment to public service.

– Punjab CM's order –

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz ordered strict security arrangements across Punjab for Christmas.

She directed enhanced security for churches and prayer ceremonies, instructed district administrations to monitor arrangements, and ordered traffic management improvements during events.

Police officials expressed solidarity with Christians by cutting cakes.

She also announced special discounts for the Christian community in markets and mandated cleanliness around churches.

– Balochistan governor's order –

Balochistan Governor Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhel instructed authorities to ensure secure Christmas celebrations across Balochistan, especially in Quetta.

He ordered increased deployment of security personnel around churches and Christian neighbourhoods.

The district administrations and police were told to remain vigilant and address any issues promptly, ensuring a safe environment for festivities.

– Global Events –

Around the world, Christmas was being observed with grandeur. In Beijing, Catholics held prayer gatherings, while hundreds of Indonesians lit candles and sang hymns in Jakarta.

In Bethlehem, children participated in rallies, waving Vatican and Palestinian flags, calling for ceasefires.

In Venice, Santa Claus led a boat parade, and Finland’s Santa embarked on a global journey with gifts.

Cairo and Dubai witnessed festive activities in markets and winter festivals.

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