Christians in Pakistan and all over the world celebrated the official birth anniversary of Jesus Christ on Christmas day with great zest and zeal.
The Christian community decorated buildings and streets with decorative Christmas lights, with Christmas trees being set up in various areas. Meanwhile, people in Santa Claus costumes distributed presents to children, with special services being held in churches where prayers and hymns being offered on the occasion.
The Christmas peace train, launched by the government through Pakistan railways recently, reached Lahore on Saturday on its journey across the country. It was welcomed to the provincial capital by Federal Human Rights Minister Kamran Michael.
The minister, talking to audience which had arrived to see the peace train at Lahore Railway station, said that the purpose of the train was to spread the message of peace, tolerance and love all over the nation. He said that the train was a symbol of the unity of the Pakistan, against the menace of terrorism and extremism. He added that it showed to all those watching that the Christian community stood shoulder to shoulder with the rest of the country.
On the occasion, various politicians and government representatives extended well wishes to the Christian community. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in his message wished a Merry Christmas to the Christians of Pakistan, acknowledging their constructive role in the progress and prosperity of the country. “I greatly appreciate their patriotism, devoted service and sincere attachment to the country and am confident that they will continue to play their due role for peace, progress and prosperity of Pakistan with complete dedication,” he said.
President Mamnoon Hussain also added his felicitations saying, “On behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan, I extend heartiest greetings to Christian community in Pakistan and all over the world on the joyous occasion of Christmas.”
In addition to the federal government, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah also sent a message on Christmas, noting that the rest of the nation stood with Christians in the celebration of the honoured holiday of Christmas. He praised the contribution of the community, highlighting their efforts in various areas such as education and health.
Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also took the time to send a message on Twitter to all Christians in Pakistan, saying, ““PPP is the political home for every Pakistani irrespective to their religion. We celebrate and mourn together as an integrated nation. Like Eid and Diwali, we will celebrate Christmas also together and share each other’s festivities.”
