RAWALPINDI: Christmas was celebrated in the city with enthusiasm as hundreds thronged to churches after two years of muted celebrations due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

There was cheer all around on Sunday with churches decorated with colourful lights; midnight services were followed by morning services at churches of various places in the garrison city.

The largest gathering was held at St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

Congregations were informed about the birth and teachings of Jesus Christ and people prayed for peace and establishment of brotherhood throughout the world. Christmas trees were adorned with sparkling decorations and special meals were prepared.

Some members of the Christian community said spicy biryani and fried chicken was a favourite during the celebrations.

“Singing parties and decoration in homes on Christmas was the main part of celebrations. Some people also arranged private family parties and visits to parks,” said Farooq Bhatti, a resident of Saddar.

He said people also exchanged gifts on this day, adding during the last two years Christmas was celebrated inside homes while there were less activities in churches.

He said children were especially thrilled as they had been bound to their houses and localities in the last two years.

“The residents of slum areas are poor but everyone tries to take part in Christmas celebrations wholeheartedly and give gifts to their children according to their financial position,” said Eman Shaukat, a resident of Bhatta Naik Alam near Holy Family Hospital.

He said that despite harsh weather, people gathered at Holy Family Hospital Church and offered their religious rituals, adding that the people faced problems due to low pressure of natural gas in their homes.

The district administration sent cakes in all churches with good wishes to the community.

The police made elaborate arrangements for security outside and inside churches by deploying personnel.

The Water and Sanitation Agency (Wasa), Rawalpindi Waste Management Company (RWMC), Rawalpindi and Chaklala Cantonment Boards held a ceremony for over 4,000 sanitation workers who belong to the Christian community.

Published in Dawn, December 26th, 2022