Christians across Pakistan and around the world are celebrating Christmas today with religious devotion and festive spirit.
As Christmas Eve arrived, special prayer services began in churches worldwide. In Pakistan, churches in Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, and other cities held special prayers, where worshippers prayed for national security, prosperity, and the country’s continued progress.
Major cities around the world, including Washington, London, Paris, Moscow, and Dubai, were illuminated with colourful decorations to mark the occasion.
Special religious services were also held at the Vatican City. During the ceremony, Pope Leo referred to the circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ and said that turning away from the poor and strangers was equivalent to rejecting God.
In Bethlehem, large gatherings of worshippers were seen at the historic Church of the Nativity, marking the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended Christmas greetings to the Christian community in Pakistan. In his message, he said that Christians are playing a valuable role as an active, positive, and peaceful community in the country.
The prime minister expressed hope that Christmas would bring peace, stability, and prosperity for the Christian community and for Pakistan as a whole. He said the day carries a universal message of love, peace, tolerance, and goodwill for all humanity.
He also acknowledged the Christian community’s contributions to Pakistan’s social and economic development, describing their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism as a source of pride for the nation. The prime minister said that the services of Christians in education, healthcare, and other sectors have strengthened social harmony.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring equal rights, freedoms, and professional opportunities for all citizens without discrimination.
