Christian community all set for Christmas today [Pakistan]

Daily Times ^ | 24 December 2011 | Staff

[BlackVeil]

LAHORE: The Christian community is set to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in the metropolis today (Sunday). People are seen decorating their houses and churches to mark Christmas’s celebrations. Special Christmas services will be held in 250 different churches of the city.

Two major gatherings are to be held on the main Christmas day; one at The Cathederal on The Mall, and the other at Saint Anthony’s on the Lawrence Road. The celebrations include sermons from the priests highlighting the important aspects of the religion and the Christ’s teachings.

Talking about the importance of the event, Lahore Bishop Dr Alexander John Malik said that the birth of Jesus Christ was a befitting occasion for celebration and jubilation. “This year, we should not forget our poor brothers and sisters in the war-ravaged Afghanistan,” he added in his Christmas message. He concluded by saying that he hoped the government would continue to strive for fundamental rights, honour, life and properties of minorities enshrined in the constitution of Pakistan.

Christmas celebrations start one day prior to the main Christmas day when people gather at midnight to ring the church bells, which is done to signify the start of worship time and to light the Christmas tree. Groups of young boys and girls present carols in melodious tones that add more charm to the Christmas functions. The religious festival is aimed at bringing people together to feast, pray, exchange wishes and enjoy the moments that they consider to be sacred and blessed.

Santa Claus is one of the highlights of Christmas celebrations. Children and other family members receive gifts from the Santa Claus who is dressed in a red costume with a long white beard. The jolly Santa Claus serves as the most enchanting aspect and a major attraction of Christmas. ...

[BlackVeil]

This article gives a pleasant view of Christmas for the Christians of Pakistan. Unfortunately, this is only a small bit of a larger picture, and the situation of the Christian community is sombre, with much pressure and persecutions. I note, from this article, that they are thinking of others - such as the people of Afghanistan - very generous.

[SkyDancer]

I wonder how many Christians will be killed by the ROP.

[jakerobins]

Merry Christmas to the Christians of the world. I hope they can celebrate in peace.....Prayers for the Christians in majority muzzie countries....