Like other parts of the globe, the Christians in Pakistan celebrated Christmas amid tight security.
Christians started their celebrations at midnight by singing hymns and offering prayers. The day started with special prayers at churches. They also prayed for peace and harmony in the country.
Christmas trees were decorated with lights and colourful balls in Christian colonies, outside shopping malls and alongside the important roads. The Christian community in the country renewed their commitments to follow the teachings of their religion in letter and spirit.
In Islamabad, prayers were held at Catholic Church F-8. Large numbers of Christians from various areas of the federal capital participated in the services. Prosperous people including the people from diplomatic circles delivered food items before the celebrations in the evening to facilitate poor Christians in celebrating the spirit of Christmas to the fullest.
In Peshawar, Christmas was not celebrated with the same fervour as past years with worshippers remembering the victims of the devastating double suicide attack at All Saints Church which had killed eighty-two people three months ago. The attack is believed to be the deadliest ever against the Christian community in the country.
The church service started at the Saddar Bazaar Church and was attended by Christians from around the city.
In Karachi Prayers were held in various churches of the city including St Peter’s Church which is the largest Catholic church in Pakistan. The Christian community celebrated this joyous occasion by singing Christmas carols.
Police mobiles were stationed outside the churches to avoid any untoward situation. No one was allowed to enter the church without proper checking.
In Lahore, hundreds of Christians attended the prayer ceremony held at the Lahore Cathedral.
The government had made comprehensive security arrangements and special deployment of police was ensured at Churches and public places.
