Christmas day is celebrated on the day, when Jesus Christ was born and one hopes that in Pakistan, the celebrations would, be marked with lights, music, songs, colour and festivity followed by special prayers for the peace and prosperity of the country.
For, Christians everywhere and in Pakistan particularly, is a wonderful time of the year when you feel so special, spiritually and socially. The best part about Christmas is that it knows no bounds, in every country people from all walks of life, whoever they may be, enjoy a slice of the celebration; and in Pakistan too, with the growing number of Christians here and government’s recognition of the festivals of the minorities, Christmas is becoming a great feast for everyone. For Christian community, a special function was arranged at (PNCA) which was graced by Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani and a special dinner for Christian community was also held at President House to mark the Christmas celebrations.
Christian community in Pakistan is giving final touches to the preparations. The Christian community in Pakistan is decorating their homes with colourful lights; even the churches are illuminated with golden twilights to celebrate the joy and spirit of Christmas. The aim of Christmas is to spread the message of peace, harmony and unity among the world communities. According to Federal Minister for Minorities Affairs, Shahbaz Bhatti, “This time, Christmas will be celebrated in the same old spirit, which kindles love and hope.”
Christian employees working for government and private firms would be getting bonus on their salaries and Christmas perks also, according to the Punjab government notifications. On these celebrations, youth buy cards and gifts and children decorate Christmas trees with their parents. Little boys and girls participate in Christmas plays in schools. Shops are opened till midnight and cakes are being decorated with reference to Christmas celebrations. To add more colour to Christmas, college and university students give donations, help out charities or other activities that calls on people to give their time and share with those who do not have anything.
Newspapers, television and radio print and broadcast special programmes and articles on the importance of Christmas day. Because of wide media activities in Pakistan; channels telecast plays, carol singing and visits to Christian churches and homes are recorded.
