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ISLAMABAD, Dec 24: Like other parts of the country the Christian community in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad is also celebrating Christmas with religious fervour and enthusiasm on Tuesday.
Christmas trees and cribs have been decorated in almost all houses of the community.
An over 50-feet tree has been decorated in the precincts of Catholic Church in Rawalpindi. Bathed in glorious golden glaze, with sparking star atop the tree is the tallest ever to be decorated in the twin cities.
Some churches in Rawalpindi have imported cypresses from Gulf states along with special lights. The hall of St. Paul’s Church has been decorated with a beautiful cypress tree.
Rev. Basharat David Padre of St. Paul’s Church told Dawn that midnight services would be offered in all churches of Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Monday, while Christmas service will take place on Tuesday at 11am.
Special prayers for the progress and prosperity of the country will be offered at all the churches.
Radio and PTV would also present the Christmas programmes and carol songs.
TRESSLER: Minister for Minorities Col (Rtd) S.K.Tressler greeted the Christian community on Monday on the eve of Christmas.
“On behalf of government and on my own behalf I extend my heartiest greetings to my Christian brethren on the auspicious occasion of Christmas,” Mr Tressler said in his message.
The birthday of Jesus Christ, he said, was a befitting occasion for celebration and jubilation, adding however, doing so this year we should remember our poor brothers and sisters along with the bereaved families of Bahawalpur incident and war-ravaged Afghan people.
“I share the sentiments of my community on this auspicious occasion and wish them all a very happy Christmas,” he remarked.
He said the government would always strive to safeguard fundamental rights, honour, life and properties of minorities enshrined in the Constitution.
Mr Tressler also expressed the hope, the Christian community, would continue to play its due role for the prosperity and development of the country.
Jesus Christ, the minister added, preached love, equality, peace and brotherhood and gave to his followers a code of life to create spiritual values and to work for the divine pleasure.
