ISLAMABAD: Christmas is being celebrated today by the Christian community across Pakistan and around the world with religious devotion, joy, and traditional enthusiasm.
Special prayer services began on Christmas Eve in churches globally, including major cities of Pakistan such as Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta.
Churches were filled with worshippers offering special prayers for peace, prosperity, national security, and the progress of the country.
Festive decorations and celebrations were witnessed in major international cities including Washington, London, Paris, Moscow, Dubai, and others, creating a vibrant Christmas atmosphere.
In Vatican City, special Christmas services were held where Pope Leo highlighted the circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ (peace be upon him).
He emphasized that neglecting the poor and strangers is equivalent to rejecting God’s message of love and compassion.
A large gathering of devotees was also seen at the historic Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, marking the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to the Christian community. President Zardari stated that Christmas conveys a message of hope, peace, and empathy. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wished the nation traditional festive joys and expressed hope that Christmas would bring peace, stability, and prosperity.
The Prime Minister praised the Christian community for being a positive, active, and peaceful part of Pakistani society and acknowledged their sacrifices alongside the nation in the fight against terrorism, calling them a source of nationa pride.
