<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" version="2.0"><channel>
                        <title>The Express Tribune</title>
                        <atom:link href="https://tribune.com.pk/feed/christmas" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/>
                        <link>https://tribune.com.pk/feed/christmas</link>
                        <description>The Express Tribune keeps you up to date with all the latest happenings from Pakistan and across the world!</description>
                        <lastBuildDate>Sun, 31 May 26 04:37:46 +0500</lastBuildDate>
                        <language>en-US</language>
                        <sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
                        <sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
                        <generator>https://laravel.com/</generator><item>
			<title>'Do not get used to suffering' in Gaza: Salah</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451203/do-not-get-used-to-suffering-in-gaza-salah</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451203/do-not-get-used-to-suffering-in-gaza-salah#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 26 Dec 23 09:52:33 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[REUTERS]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2451203</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Liverpool forward approaches Christmas with a heavy heart amid death and destruction in Gaza]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah said on Monday that families grieving for their loved ones in Gaza should not be forgotten, as he issued an emotional Christmas message marking only his second comment on the war in the enclave.

Salah posted a black-and-white picture of a Christmas tree on his social media pages, saying he was approaching Christmas with a heavy heart amid the fighting in Gaza, which has been under intense bombardment by Israel since Hamas militants launched a cross-border rampage on Oct. 7.

Israel says Hamas militants killed 1,200 people and took around 240 people hostage in their attack. Israel&#39;s ensuing bombardment of Gaza has killed more than 20,400 people and wounded at least 50,000, according to authorities in the Hamas-ruled strip.

&quot;With the brutal war going on in the Middle East, especially the death and destruction in Gaza, this year we get to Christmas with very heavy hearts and we share the pain of those families who are grieving the loss of their loved ones,&quot; Salah said.

&quot;Please do not forget them and do not get used to their suffering. Merry Christmas,&quot;

Salah wrote to his more than 63 million followers on Instagram and almost 19 million on X. Salah had faced some criticism in his native Egypt after staying silent on the issue for more than a week after the war started, with many fans comparing his stance to other Arab sports figures who have been more vocal about it.

Egyptian Red Crescent officials said in October that Salah had made a &quot;significant donation&quot; to help the people of Gaza. In his first comments on the conflict in October, less than two weeks after the war started, Salah called for an end to what he described as &quot;massacres&quot;, appealing for humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza.

The 31-year-old is one of the leading scorers in the English Premier League this season.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/salah1703584431-0/salah1703584431-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Religious harmony stressed on Christmas</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451185/religious-harmony-stressed-on-christmas</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451185/religious-harmony-stressed-on-christmas#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 26 Dec 23 07:20:38 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2451185</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Government had made elaborate security arrangements to avert any untoward incident on this occasion]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The minority Christian community in the city celebrated its festive occasion of Christmas with joy and cheer. Special programmes were held in churches across the provincial capital to celebrate the festival.

Residential colonies of Christian community were decorated with twinkling lights and stars. Churches were decorated with colorful lights and illuminated with Christmas trees.

The government had made elaborate security arrangements to avert any untoward incident on this occasion. Caretaker Sindh&nbsp;Minister for Minority Affairs Muhammad Ahmad Shah, marked a significant moment of unity by visiting Karachi&#39;s historic St Patrick&#39;s Cathedral and Holy Trinity Cathedral Church.



Karachi (December 25th, 2023) Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Maqbool Baqar accompanied by Minister Information &amp; Minorities Affairs Ahmad Shah visited Holy Trinity Cathedral, presented Christmas cake to the Bishop of Karachi Reverend Frederick John and also cut Christmas cake. pic.twitter.com/jlNfdBUplA
&mdash; Sindh Chief Minister House (@SindhCMHouse) December 25, 2023



Accompanied by Chief Minister Sindh, Justice (retd) Maqbool Baqar), the leaders participated in the Christmas celebrations to foster religious harmony in the country.

Read&nbsp;Christian community celebrates Xmas today

Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori visited St Andrew&#39;s Church in Saddar.

Speaking on this occasion, the Governor Sindh congratulated the Christian community of Pakistan and the whole world and said that he is writing a letter to the federation to increase the job quota for the Christian community by 10 per cent.

He said that the all doors of the Governor&#39;s House are open for the Christians. He said the message of Christmas is to spread the message of peace and prosperity in the world, a symbol of peace, brotherhood and respect to Jesus. It is believed that Jesus healed humanity by preaching tolerance, love and compassion, he said.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Cm-Sindh,-Info-Min,-Christmas1703575541-0/Cm-Sindh,-Info-Min,-Christmas1703575541-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>CM vows to safeguard minority rights</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451149/cm-vows-to-safeguard-minority-rights</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451149/cm-vows-to-safeguard-minority-rights#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 Dec 23 20:30:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2451149</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Ceremony at K-P CM House celebrates Christmas]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Caretaker Chief Minister Syed Arshad Hussain Shah hosted members of the Christian community at the Chief Minister House to celebrate Christmas with a cake-cutting ceremony on Monday.

The ceremony was attended by a delegation of the Christian community from Peshawar led by Bishop Humphray Sarfaraz Peter. On the occasion, the chief minister, along with the Christian delegates, cut a Christmas cake.

The chief minister extended Christmas greetings to the Christian community of the country. He lauded the role of the Christian community in national development. He said that the entire nation held this role of Christian community in very high esteem.

Read&nbsp;CM stresses unity against extremism

&ldquo;The wellbeing and protection of the rights of minority communities living in the province are among the top priorities of the government,&rdquo; the chief minister told the ceremony. He assured that steps would be taken on a priority basis for resolving the issues of all minorities, including the Christians.

On the occasion, the chief minister directed the authorities concerned for taking necessary steps to immediately resolve the urgent nature of issues confronting the Christian community. He also ordered special security arrangements for in the residential areas of the minority communities.

&ldquo;The government is planning to launch an employment programme for the youth of the province under which 500,000 youth will be imparted training in modern skills to enable them to get jobs abroad, he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 26th, &nbsp;2023.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/21703536508-0/21703536508-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Christmas illuminates twin cities</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451063/christmas-illuminates-twin-cities</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451063/christmas-illuminates-twin-cities#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 24 Dec 23 18:57:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2451063</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Churches have been festively decorated with colourful flags and twinkling lights]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Christian community is celebrating Christmas &ndash; an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ &ndash; with religious fervour today [Monday].

All churches in the twin cities have been festively decorated with colourful flags and twinkling lights. Christmas trees stand alongside churches and dot the front yards of Christian households.

On Christmas Eve, followers of the faith held a wake and offered prayers to welcome the auspicious day of Christmas. Prayers were also made for the development and prosperity of the country.

The remainder of the moonlit night was spent shopping in commercial centres, which were open late into the night for shoppers who flocked to stores despite the cold. Popular commercial markets included bazaars of Saddar and Iqbal Road, Raja Bazaar, Tench Bhatta Bazaar, Raja Bazaar and Moti Bazaar.

Most Christmas shoppers were witnessed at garment and shoe stores as they shopped for last-minute festive attires and presents. Many Christians have also prepared special Christmas cakes for the festive occasion.

Security has been stepped up for Christmas across all churches in the city. Police forces that include female commandos have been deployed at churches. Entry into churches will be monitored through walk-through gates. Closed circuit cameras have also been installed.

Christmas celebrations in the churches will start at 9am today and will continue till 11am, during which offerings will be made to honour Jesus and Mary.

Special traffic arrangements

The City Traffic Police (CTP) has issued a special traffic plan for Christmas Day and Quaid-e-Azam&rsquo;s birth anniversary day.

According to a CTP spokesperson, as many as 281 officers and wardens will be deployed in the city to regulate traffic and facilitate citizens from midnight of December 24 through December 25.

Read&nbsp;Christmas preps in full swing

The spokesperson added that traffic officials including circle in-charges, inspectors, traffic wardens and traffic assistants will be stationed to maintain the flow of traffic on city roads. Special squads will also be deployed to check and control one-wheeling.

Cake-cutting held

A Christmas cake-cutting ceremony was organised on Sunday by the Rawalpindi police for officers belonging to the Christian community of Rawalpindi police.

Senior Superintendent Police (SSP) Operations, Flight Lieutenant (retd) Hafiz Kamran Asghar, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Admin, DSP Security Tahir Sikandar and Christian police officers along with their families participated in the ceremony.

SSP operations fulfilled the honour of cutting the Christmas cake alongside policemen and their children. The SSP congratulated members of the Christian community present at the occasion and presented them with gifts and wishes.

&ldquo;The purpose of this event is to share in your happiness,&rdquo; said SSP operations. &ldquo;The Rawalpindi police join you in celebrating the joy of Christmas.&rdquo;

&ldquo;Foolproof security will be provided to churches, Christian localities and the community,&rdquo; said Superintendent Hafiz Kamran Asghar. He further added that all safety measures were being taken for the welfare of the force as per the vision of the Punjab Inspector General of Police.

&ndash;With additional input from APP

Published in The Express Tribune, December 25th, 2023]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Pakistan-Christmas-(1)1703445255-0/Pakistan-Christmas-(1)1703445255-0.jpeg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Israeli airstrikes kill 78 in Gaza in Christmas bloodshed</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451094/israeli-airstrikes-kill-78-in-gaza-in-christmas-bloodshed</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451094/israeli-airstrikes-kill-78-in-gaza-in-christmas-bloodshed#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 Dec 23 04:47:52 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2451094</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Health ministry says 70 killed in airstrike targeting Maghazi refugee camp; eight killed in Khan Younis]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pope Francis lamented the war in the Holy Land where Palestinian health officials said airstrikes killed at least 78 people on Christmas Eve in one of the Gaza Strip&#39;s deadliest nights in Israel&#39;s 11-week-old battle with Hamas.

Israeli strikes that began hours before midnight persisted into Christmas Day on Monday. Local residents and Palestinian media said Israel stepped up air and ground shelling against al-Bureij in central Gaza.

At least 70 people were killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting Maghazi in central Gaza, health ministry spokesperson Ashraf Al-Qidra said, adding that many were women and children.

The Israeli army said it was reviewing the report of a Maghazi incident and was committed to minimising harm to civilians. Hamas denies the Israeli charge that it operates in densely populated areas or uses civilians as human shields.

The Palestinian Red Crescent published footage of the wounded being transported to hospitals. It said Israeli warplanes were bombing main roads between central Gaza, hindering the passage of ambulances and emergency vehicles.

Medics said a separate Israeli airstrike in Khan Younis in southern Gaza killed eight Palestinians.

Clergy cancelled celebrations in Bethlehem, the Israeli-occupied Palestinian West Bank city where tradition has it that Jesus was born in a stable 2,000 years ago.

&quot;Tonight, our hearts are in Bethlehem, where the Prince of Peace is once more rejected by the futile logic of war, by the clash of arms that even today prevents him from finding room in the world,&quot; Pope Francis said, presiding at&nbsp;Christmas Eve Mass&nbsp;in St. Peter&#39;s Basilica in Rome.

Palestinian Christians earlier held a Christmas vigil in Bethlehem with candle-lit hymns and prayers for peace in Gaza instead of the usual celebrations.

There was no large tree, the usual centrepiece of Bethlehem&#39;s Christmas celebrations. Nativity figurines in churches were placed amid rubble and barbed wire in solidarity with the people of Gaza.

A deadly Christmas

Since a week-long truce collapsed at the start of the month, fighting has only intensified on the ground, with war spreading from the north of the Gaza Strip to the full length of the densely populated enclave.

Read&nbsp;Israel bombs northern Gaza, reports mounting military losses

The Israeli military said 10 of its soldiers had been killed in the past day, following five killed the previous day, its worst two-day losses since early November.

&quot;This is a difficult morning, after a very difficult day of fighting in Gaza,&quot; Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told his cabinet on Sunday. &quot;The war is exacting a very heavy cost from us; however, we have no choice (but) to continue to fight.&quot;

In a later video message, he said troops would fight on deeper into Gaza until &quot;total victory&quot; over Hamas.

Israel has been under pressure from its closest ally the United States to shift its operations into a lower density phase and reduce civilian deaths.

On Saturday, Israel&#39;s military chief of staff said his forces had largely achieved operational control in the north of Gaza and would expand operations further in the south.

But residents say fighting has only intensified in northern districts.

Islamic Jihad leader in Cairo on diplomatic mission

Diplomatic efforts, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, on a new truce to free remaining hostages held by militants in Gaza have yielded little public progress, although Washington described the talks last week as &quot;very serious.&quot;

Islamic Jihad, a smaller militant group allied to Hamas, said a delegation led by its exiled leader Ziad al-Nakhlala was in Cairo on Sunday. His arrival followed talks attended by Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in recent days.

The militant groups have so far said they will not discuss any release of hostages unless Israel ends its war in Gaza, while the Israelis say they are willing to discuss only a temporary pause in fighting.

The delegation would reaffirm the group&#39;s position that any exchange of hostages will have to secure the release of all Palestinians jailed in Israel, &quot;after a ceasefire is achieved,&quot; the official said.

Hamas and Islamic Jihad are still believed to be holding more than 100 hostages from among 240 they captured during their October 7 rampage through Israeli towns, when they killed 1,200 people.

Since then, Israel has besieged the Gaza Strip and laid much of it to waste, with more than 20,400 people confirmed killed, and thousands more are believed dead under the rubble.

The vast majority of the 2.3 million Gazans have been driven from their homes and the United Nations says conditions are catastrophic.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Maghazi-refugee-camp-airstrike1703479955-0/Maghazi-refugee-camp-airstrike1703479955-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>TDCP organises free double-decker bus ride on Christmas eve</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451079/tdcp-organises-free-double-decker-bus-ride-on-christmas-eve</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451079/tdcp-organises-free-double-decker-bus-ride-on-christmas-eve#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 24 Dec 23 19:48:57 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2451079</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Vehicle takes community members from Cathedral Church to Governor House]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Punjab Tourism Development Corporation Punjab (TDCP) offered a free double-decker bus service for the citizens celebrating Christmas.

The bus carrying passengers led by former provincial human rights minister Ijaz Alam Augustine left from the Cathedral Church and reached Governor House via Mall Road.

According to a news release, Lahore Archbishop Sebastian Francis Shaw, Reverend Dr Majeed Abel, Tourism Department MD Humira Akram, TDCP Director Ashfaq Dogar, and representatives of the YDF, lawyers, the civil society and the Christian community rode the bus.

The vehicle was decorated in elaborate style and songs marking the occasion were sung by the community members. Citizens also welcomed the Christmas bus riders on various roads.

Read&nbsp;Extensive Christmas security planned

The TDCP managing director said on the occasion that the main purpose of the free bus service was to share in the joy of the Christian community and give them a Christmas gift on behalf of the department.

Augustine said he felt proud that all people in Pakistan, especially Punjab, were fully participating in the joys of the Christian community. He such initiatives would promote mutual love and harmony, while hatred would be eradicated.

The archbishop of Lahore said Christmas cakes had been cut in public and private institutions as an expression of solidarity with the community.

Dr Majeed Abel said the minorities across Pakistan were celebrating all their religious days with full enthusiasm and a positive image of the country was becoming prominent.

At the conclusion of the bus tour, Christian community members cut a Christmas cake along with the Punjab governor.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 25th, 2023]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/11671913182-0/11671913182-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Christian community celebrates Xmas today</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451085/christian-community-celebrates-xmas-today-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451085/christian-community-celebrates-xmas-today-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 24 Dec 23 20:40:42 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2451085</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Rush of buyers at Bohri Bazaar; security stepped up at churches across Sindh]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Christian community is set to celebrate the joyous occasion of Christmas with fervour and enthusiasm nationwide, including in Karachi, today (Monday).

Vibrant displays of Christmas trees and Stars of David adorn churches, homes, and neighbourhoods, while electric lanterns illuminate houses and streets.

The festive celebrations commenced with Sunday mass in all churches of the metropolitan city, including St Patrick&#39;s and Holy Trinity.

Christian priests conveyed the teachings of Jesus Christ, accompanied by special songs and prayers for peace, security, prosperity, and development in the country. These prayer events will continue until Monday.

Residential areas of the Christian community are hosting special Christmas events, embellishing houses with festive decorations. Christmas cakes are being cut, and Santa Claus is spreading joy by distributing gifts to children.

In the spirit of Christmas, community members, from men to children, have adorned themselves with new clothes and exchanged greetings, gifts, and well-wishes.

As the Christian community geared up on Sunday to complete their last minute preparations, markets in Saddar were seen crowded.

Read&nbsp;Parks get new look ahead of Christmas

Bohri Bazar on Christmas

According to shopkeepers of the Bohri Bazar, the buying capacity of Christian community in Karachi is already quite low and now it&#39;s accompanied by uncontrollable inflation. With the depreciating value of the rupee, Christmas ornaments have become 20-25% more costly. The price of an 8-10ft long Christmas tree is Rs1,000 costlier than last year. The decoration items to decorate the trees are purchased separately which include shining stars, small Christmas bells, little Santas and icy bulbs. The shopkeepers observe that the shopping for Christmas items begins from the start of December and continue till Christmas Eve. A visible increase in purchases is seen in the week right before Christmas.

Sharing love

On Christmas, apart from the Christian community, people from other communities also present cakes to their friends. Bakeries have prepared special cakes that are sold all day long. Along with that, five-star hotels of the cities and large-scale cake shops have specially prepared Christmas themed desserts, sales of which have already begun. Courier companies are also providing special cake-delivery service for the day.

The sweets and bakers shops on Jail Road and Bahadurabad are seen crowded while the bakeries in Saddar are receiving huge orders for cakes.

Security alert

As Christmas approaches, the Sindh police chief, IG Rifat Mukhtar Raja, has issued directives for enhanced security measures across the province, ensuring comprehensive safety for both Quaid-i-Azam Day and Christmas. Emphasis is placed on robust security at Mazar-i-Quaid, surrounding areas, and main gates, with the Bomb Disposal Squad conducting thorough sweeping and clearance processes.

For Christmas, the police chief stressed extraordinary security in churches, missionary schools, and educational institutions throughout the province, especially in Christian community areas. Coordination with relevant police stations and event organisers is deemed crucial, with SHOs instructed to be present during celebrations.

The focus is on real-time updates and coordination through wireless control bases.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 25th, 2023]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Pakistan-Christmas-(2)1703445256-1/Pakistan-Christmas-(2)1703445256-1.jpeg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Christian community celebrates Xmas today</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451071/christian-community-celebrates-xmas-today</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451071/christian-community-celebrates-xmas-today#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 24 Dec 23 19:03:27 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[our.correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2451071</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Security stepped up at churches across Sindh]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Christian community is set to celebrate the joyous occasion of Christmas with fervour and enthusiasm nationwide, including in Karachi, today (Monday).

Vibrant displays of Christmas trees and Stars of David adorn churches, homes, and neighbourhoods, while electric lanterns illuminate houses and streets.

The festive celebrations commenced with Sunday mass in all churches of the metropolitan city, including St Patrick&#39;s and Holy Trinity.

Christian priests conveyed the teachings of Jesus Christ, accompanied by special songs and prayers for peace, security, prosperity, and development in the country. These prayer events will continue until Monday.

Read also:&nbsp;Alvi, Kakar urge harmony in Xmas messages

Residential areas of the Christian community are hosting special Christmas events, embellishing houses with festive decorations. Christmas cakes are being cut, and Santa Claus is spreading joy by distributing gifts to children.

In the spirit of Christmas, community members, from men to children, have adorned themselves with new clothes and exchanged greetings, gifts, and well-wishes.

As the Christian community geared up on Sunday to complete their last minute preparations, markets in Saddar were seen crowded.

A spring of Christmas trees appeared; some of which were green, others green and white and yet others just white. Clothes and gifts for children were everywhere while bakeries and cake-making companies were busy in preparing numerous orders for Christmas cakes. Foreign ambassadors and staff members also headed to Bohri Bazar for Christmas shopping while lanes of the market were exploding with a merry view of green trees.

Christmas tree tradition

Christmas trees and decorations add a spark to Christmas as the joys are incomplete without them. The healthy green Christmas tree symbolises hope and an everlasting life. Decorating homes with green twigs and plants is a part of the Ancient Roman tradition that is specially done in winters and on New Year&#39;s Eve. The pointed end of the Christmas tree rising towards the sky highlights the connection of man with the creator of the universe.

From the last few years, there has been an increase in demand for Christmas trees. The ones most in demand are those that are 10-12 feet high. Made with plastic layering on iron wires, these Christmas trees are placed in hotels, trade centres, embassies and churches. With the rise in inflation and dollar rates, the prices of Christmas trees and their d&eacute;cor has risen too.

Bohri Bazar on Christmas



A visible increase in purchases is seen in the week right before Christmas. PHOTO: EXPRESS

According to shopkeepers of the Bohri Bazar, the buying capacity of Christian community in Karachi is already quite low and now it&#39;s accompanied by uncontrollable inflation. With the depreciating value of the rupee, Christmas ornaments have become 20-25% more costly. The price of an 8-10ft long Christmas tree is Rs1,000 costlier than last year. The decoration items to decorate the trees are purchased separately which include shining stars, small Christmas bells, little Santas and icy bulbs. The shopkeepers observe that the shopping for Christmas items begins from the start of December and continue till Christmas Eve. A visible increase in purchases is seen in the week right before Christmas.

Symbolism of Christmas decorations

Christmas bells, amongst all decoration items, are loved the most as the bells symbolise the arrival of the season and to proclaim the birth of Christ. Bells are also traced back to pagan winter celebrations as noisemakers were used to scare away evil spirits in the night. The red bells reflect the colour of holly berries, which also had pagan symbolism during the winter celebrations in ancient Rome. Green is another popular colour for Christmas bells that signifies everlasting light and life.

These bells are sold according to their sizes starting at Rs100 and going up to Rs500 each. They are made from plastic used only for decoration on the trees. The Christmas wreath is also an essential part of the decorations. The wreath made from flowers, ribbons and twigs are placed on doors of houses. The round wreath symbolises unconditional love from God. Snowmen are also used, despite the fact that there is no snow in Karachi, they are of utter importance in Christmas as it highlights the sensation of snowfall. In Bohri Bazar, statues of snowmen in big and small sizes are also sold along with huge Christmas stars to be placed on top of the Christmas tree.

Santa clothes

Santa Claus&#39; clothes and caps are a major attraction for children amongst the Christian community. Children like dressing up in Santa clothes to personify Santa Claus who spreads joy and love. Due to the lack of purchasing power of new clothes, shopkeepers at Bohri Bazar usually stock up red and white coloured jackets or coats. Many people prefer buying the Santa clothes from foreign markets and then resell them right after Christmas.

Santa Claus clothes are available for newly-born children as well as for the elderly who love to adapt Santa Claus&#39; appearance to distribute joys of Christmas.

Sharing love

On Christmas, apart from the Christian community, people from other communities also present cakes to their friends. Bakeries have prepared special cakes that are sold all day long. Along with that, five-star hotels of the cities and large-scale cake shops have specially prepared Christmas themed desserts, sales of which have already begun. Courier companies are also providing special cake-delivery service for the day.

The sweets and bakers shops on Jail Road and Bahadurabad are seen crowded while the bakeries in Saddar are receiving huge orders for cakes. The manager of a cake shop situated near Guru Mandir, told The Express Tribune that on Christmas mostly small and medium-sized ice-cream cakes, chocolate cakes, and crunch cakes are sold. People love gifting dry fruit cakes to their friends as a speciality of winter.

Security alert

As Christmas approaches, the Sindh police chief, IG Rifat Mukhtar Raja, has issued directives for enhanced security measures across the province, ensuring comprehensive safety for both Quaid-i-Azam Day and Christmas. Emphasis is placed on robust security at Mazar-I-Quaid, surrounding areas, and main gates, with the Bomb Disposal Squad conducting thorough sweeping and clearance processes.

For Christmas, the police chief stressed extraordinary security in churches, missionary schools, and educational institutions throughout the province, especially in Christian community areas. Coordination with relevant police stations and event organisers is deemed crucial, with SHOs instructed to be present during celebrations. The focus is on real-time updates and coordination through wireless control bases.

Looking ahead to the death anniversary of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto on December 27, the police chief underscores the need for highly coordinated security arrangements for public gatherings. Patrols, picketing, random snap checks, motorcycle patrolling, and intelligence-based countermeasures are key components, with plainclothes personnel assigned special responsibilities.

Read:&nbsp;Parks get new look ahead of Christmas

Meanwhile, Sindh Solid Waste Management Board Managing Director Naseemuddin Mirani visited various churches, inspecting sanitation arrangements and meeting church administrators.

Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab&#39;s instructions for cleaning, fumigation, and lime spraying around churches were duly carried out.

SSWMB&rsquo;s managing director has directed officers and private companies to maintain cleaning arrangements and stay in touch with church administrations. Lime spraying and disinfectant measures have been implemented, with Christmas cakes being cut at the SSWMB offices in different districts.

On this occasion, the SSWMB MD extends Merry Christmas to all Christian employees, acknowledging their dedication and hard work. He emphasises problem-solving and celebration of employees&#39; events as institutional priorities.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Pakistan-Christmas-(1)1703445255-0/Pakistan-Christmas-(1)1703445255-0.jpeg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>China's Henan province hit by shortage of winter heating after cold wave</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451032/chinas-henan-province-hit-by-shortage-of-winter-heating-after-cold-wave</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451032/chinas-henan-province-hit-by-shortage-of-winter-heating-after-cold-wave#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 24 Dec 23 10:41:57 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2451032</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[City to suspend heat supply for most businesses except essential service providers such as hospitals, senior centres]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Several cities in the central Chinese province of Henan are facing a winter heating supply crunch after a cold wave swept through a swathe of areas, bringing blizzards and sending temperatures to near historic lows.

Persistent cold snaps have put thermal power suppliers under strain in Jiaozuo, a city in Henan, with a breakdown of heating boilers in one of the major suppliers leaving some areas in urgent need of more heat supply.

JiaoZuo WanFang Aluminum Manufacturing, the supplier, is scrambling to fix the malfunction and expects to resume supply on Dec. 26, state media reported on Sunday, without specifying the number of boilers that have broken down.

JiaoZuo WanFang Aluminum did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment from Reuters.

Read China allocates $140b for public investment

The city will suspend heat supply for most businesses except essential service providers such as hospitals and senior centres to prioritise residential heat usage. However, some residential compounds will still be affected during the device maintenance period, the media reports added.

Separately, the cities of Puyang and Pingdingshan, also in Henan, have already suspended heat supply to government departments and administrative institutions to prioritise residential usage, the local governments said, citing extremely cold weather.

The weather forecast shows temperatures in the three cities hitting sub-zero on Sunday. Temperatures in several other areas in Henan would plunge to a low of minus 15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit) over the weekend, the central province&#39;s weather authority said on Saturday.

Warm air is expected to flow from the country&#39;s north to south lifting temperatures from the weekend.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Kazakhstan1670698422-0/Kazakhstan1670698422-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>The immortal chants of Pakistani Christmas</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2450961/the-immortal-chants-of-pakistani-christmas</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2450961/the-immortal-chants-of-pakistani-christmas#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 23 Dec 23 19:28:02 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Peter Jacob]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2450961</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Christmas carols accompanied by the dholak and harmonium reflect the blend of indigenous musical ethos.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Like everywhere, Christmas is the most important, most festive, occasion for Christians in Pakistan and to some extent for the people at large. While the Christmas trees and bells, Santa Claus, Christmas cakes and colours are in harmony with international rituals that characterise the Christmas season, it is the local carols which are the most distinctive element which make the Pakistani Christmas. 

Although mostly in Urdu, Punjabi and Parkari languages, the prayer services (or Masses) are held in English as well, especially in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, offering an opportunity for locals and foreigners in Pakistan, including Filipino domestic workers and students from African countries to participate. The influence of local music and poetry dominates the Urdu liturgy, or the way of worshipping, in which singing is a vital part.

The Christian localities across Pakistan manifest different flavours and moods of Christmas. There is a marker of the rural-urban divide, however. What matters is also the size of the Christian population, the location of the settlement and the denomination. Moreover, the security situation in the area is of considerable importance. Around 50 Punjab villages with a majority Christian population host or join carol competitions, besides other programmes. Added security is seen at the major churches in urban centres and singing is an in-house affair.

A journey through some events of the Christmas season this year presents these shades and flavours of Christmas. Latifabad No. 10 in Hyderabad houses a sizable Christian population. Entering the streets on a bumpy road, one notices the fancy lights hanging by bamboo poles which illuminate the street after the power outage is over. A young man, who looked a little high but very courteous, helped me park my car at a safe place. 

Walking down a pace, I hear the chants of Christmas carols. The carol party, composed of a dozen young boys and girls, stops at every door, singing Christmas carols and playing musical instruments, mostly the dholak and harmonium. The singing becomes louder when the door opens. The households are expected to hand out some gifts, in cash or kind, to the carol party. Then another carol party appeared in the second lane, giving the first group competition for quality singing and the number of houses visited.

While the rehearsals for singing start in November every year, the in-house singing begins with the Advent or the fourth Sunday before Christmas. &ldquo;The carol singing, in the style of street singing, gathers pace gradually peaking on December 24 and 25,&rdquo; says Mary, a student of Bachelors in Nursing, and a resident of Latifabad. &ldquo;Like elsewhere, the Christmas festivity cools off usually by close of December or the New Year night but the mood continues till the feast of nativity on January 7.&rdquo;

Christmas and political campaigns

Bait-El Church (House of God, in Hebrew) in Sector E of Akhtar Colony, Karachi is yet another scene of celebration. It&rsquo;s a low-lying locality of 35,000 Christian voters, with its broken roads and dozens of churches, both small and big. The Pakistan Peoples Party was able to stage a comeback in Karachi&rsquo;s politics in 2018 from this locality while Lyari, their Baloch stronghold was lost to Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf.

The campaign for the upcoming elections next year is on. Hence, the Christmas festivity is mingled with electioneering. One of the contestants, Irfan Ullah Marwat, is wooing the Pashtun voters of his ethnic background while Christians are predominantly Punjabis. 

Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan, championing the rights of Urdu-speaking Muhajirs, is trying to appeal to all sections including Christian voters by greeting people and participating in Christmas programmes in Akhtar Colony.

As part of a campaign to highlight the atrocities in Gaza. Tanzeem-e-Islami, a religious party, has displayed several banners in Akhtar Colony that warn Muslims against befriending Jews and Christians referring to Sura Al-Mayda of the Quran. However, this does not stop the Pathan boy from selling red and white Santa costumes on a cart, which are brought from the local Landa Bazar, the market for second-hand clothes. The Christian youth bought hundreds of these caps and suits.

Living through sectarian and political violence in the past three decades, the Christians of Akhtar Colony have toned down but not abandoned Christmas carols. One sees Christian children donning Santa Claus costumes, playing different types of drums and harping on well-known hymns.

The Christian Study Centre, in Rawalpindi organised carol singing in seven languages this year, including Korean and Tamil. Although some religious outfits have tried to dissuade the common populace from offering Christmas greetings deeming it un-Islamic in their views, different government departments of provincial and federal governments have been consistent in organising programmes on Christmas.

On December 22, 2023, the speeches at the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Secretariat, Islamabad addressed the challenges faced by Christians with optimism. However, Tehmina and Joshua Tariq, enthralled the audience when they took the stage with their Urdu carols. Ik Tara Chamka Hey, Ik Noor Sa Utra Hey and Aha Yesu Aya. 

Influences of Pakistani church music

Lahore, albeit its suffocating smog, and sickening anti-music campaign, retains some of its aura of freedom that is typically Lahori. Being the largest Christian population of approximately three-quarters of a million, the city has undergone many transformations, including ruralisation that includes the Christians migrating from villages across Punjab.

Irbab Younis Hakeem, a music teacher in Lahore has taught music to all his children, they make a melodious family band together. On December 21, 2023, they launched the Urdu translation of two famous English lullabies for baby Jesus, Come Unto Me and Rest. 

Historically, the major languages of Pakistan, Punjabi, Sindhi, Seraiki, Balochi and Pashto owe a lot to the Christian missionaries of the 19th and 20th century for their linguistic survival and development. The first compilation of dictionaries and grammar was carried out by the initiation of the Christian missionaries mostly in the 19th century.

The missionaries were sensitive to local culture and traditions. Some of the liturgy was translated into local poetry from English and other European languages. As a result, the entire church music became a beautiful blend of the indigenous musical ethos with universal Christian concepts. The first category was hymns which were translated and sung in Urdu, keeping the European/ English tunes. For instance, the famous hymn We Three Kings of Orient, and O Come All Ye Faithful were basically translated in Urdu. The second category, way larger in quantity, was new compositions and poetry produced in vernacular languages and indigenous musical traditions. The Psalms, noticeably, were composed in the Ragas of the Subcontinent.

Missionaries of the 19th century encouraged the local Christian poets and composers, who did a wonderful job in indigenisation or localisation of what is called the church music of Pakistan. So much so that musicologists find convergences between church and other mainstream types of music.

Nevertheless, church music today carries all the influences of mainstream music including popular Sufi music &mdash; even film music. Composer Atta Ur-Rehman Saman can trace the influence of Bhajan music from the Hindu and Sikh religious traditions &mdash; devotional music that incorporates an element of yoga and sitting on the floor is part of it. Dr Yaqoob Khan Bangash, a historian, attributes the birth of pop music in Pakistan to music bands of the 1960s and 1970s in Karachi, which were dominated by musicians and singers of Goan Christian background.

One factor at play was that many Christian artists in the mainstream film and music industry kept their interest in church music. Singers such as SB John, the Benjamin Sisters, and A Nayyar while singing for Pakistan TV and film, were as much part of church singing. The Catholic-run Waves Studio in Lahore also invited Muslim singers, such as Madam Noor Jahan, Mehnaz Begum and Ghulam Abbas to sing Christmas numbers, which enriched the church music on the one hand and influenced mainstream music positively on the other hand. Then, Christian music maestros Ustad Paris and Ustad Jimmy Khan were gurus for many mainstream singers and instrumentalists. Therefore, the church musicians and singers, with their grooming in religious music contributed a great deal to the legacy of mainstream music of Pakistan.

Qawali music has made an imprint on church music as well. The annual Ziarat in September at Maraimabad, in District Sheikhupura, brings many singers together who sing Masihi Qawali and Masihi Ghazal. 

Currently, the modern instruments are being replaced by the traditional musical instruments. Some people feel nostalgic that the piano has been replaced by the keyboard although effectively and the use of guitar has become more common. In fact, there is hardly any church in Pakistan today that is using the piano. On the other hand, the presence of Christians has enabled the teaching of Italian at Quaid-e-Azam University and Hebrew at Punjab University. 

Over the decades, the Pakistani carols and the whole paraphernalia of church music and artists behind them have enriched the musical and cultural panorama of Pakistan besides feeding the soul with music and artistic creativity. Pakistani carols are not just part of a living tradition, they manifest the highest form of creativity worth listening to. 

&nbsp;

Peter Jacob is a researcher, freelance journalist and human rights activist associated with the Centre for Social Justice. He tweets @PeterJacobCSJ and can be reached at jacobpete@gmail.com

All facts and information is the sole responsibility of the author]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/WhatsApp-Image-2023-12-23-at-16-02-231703360119-0/WhatsApp-Image-2023-12-23-at-16-02-231703360119-0.jpeg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Extensive Christmas security planned</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2450979/extensive-christmas-security-planned</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2450979/extensive-christmas-security-planned#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 23 Dec 23 20:07:14 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2450979</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Over 26,000 officers to be deployed across Punjab]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Punjab Police has finalized the security plan for Christian places of worship and sensitive installations ahead of Christmas Day. On December 25th, 26,557 officers will be deployed to protect 3,286 churches across the province. 

A Punjab Police spokesman said that 2,335 CCTV cameras, 3,427 metal detectors and hundreds of walk-through gates will be used for the security of Christian citizens. As many as 3,422 officers and personnel, 271 metal detectors and 236 CCTV cameras will be deployed in the provincial capital, while lady police officers will be deployed for the security of female Christian citizens. 

The spokesperson further said that Punjab Police has designated the 3,286 churches of the province into A, B and C categories; 154 are in A category, 414 churches in B category and 2718 churches in C category. Meanwhile, 3,501 Christian worship programs of A, B and C category will be held across the province, which will be provided with foolproof security.

Read&nbsp;Christmas security promised

IG Punjab Dr Usman Anwar directed all RPOs, DPOs and district traffic officers, including CCPO Lahore, to personally supervise Christmas security and traffic arrangements. Dr Anwar said that foolproof security must be provided to all Christian places of worship, parks, recreational places and all sensitive installations, including consulate offices. 

IGP Punjab stressed that supervisory officers should go out in the field to personally inspect security arrangements and directed officers to maintain law and order throughout the province on Christmas.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 24th, 2023.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1106719-PunjabPoliceEXPRESSZAHOORULHAQx-1463703072/1106719-PunjabPoliceEXPRESSZAHOORULHAQx-1463703072.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Parks get new look ahead of Christmas</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2450990/parks-get-new-look-ahead-of-christmas</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2450990/parks-get-new-look-ahead-of-christmas#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 23 Dec 23 20:13:40 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2450990</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Several amusement services introduced for families]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The festive season of Christmas and New Year has prompted the Rawalpindi district administration to arrange new amenities such as swings, dodging cars, computerised entertainment games, horse riding, and boating facilities for lake trips in all 55 small and big amusement parks across the district. Entry to the parks will be free but prices of all amenities and rides have been increased.

The parking fee has also been increased.

In lieu of Christmas festivities, the timings of all major entertainment places have been revised. Ayub National Park, Jinnah Park, Rumi Park, 502 Workshop Park, Allama Iqbal Park, Allama Iqbal Park, Chattar Park and other venues like these will remain open from 9am to 12am. The security of the parks has also been strengthened. Close circuit cameras have been installed at sensitive locations and additional security guards have been deployed. Complaint centres have also been established to aid visitors and monitor suspicious activity.

Read&nbsp;Christmas preps in full swing

Additionally, arrangements have been made for food and beverages in the parks which include, treats such as cornbread and lassi. The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has also enhanced the parks&rsquo; beauty by planting a wide variety of flowers.

Mini-trains, battery-powered vehicles and mini-cars have also been added to major parks for the convenience of families and children.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 24th, &nbsp;2023.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1274180-christmastreewithpresentsv-1482620044/1274180-christmastreewithpresentsv-1482620044.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Alvi, Kakar urge harmony in Xmas messages</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451062/alvi-kakar-urge-harmony-in-xmas-messages</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2451062/alvi-kakar-urge-harmony-in-xmas-messages#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 24 Dec 23 18:43:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2451062</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[State that the Constitution guarantees equal rights for minorities]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[President Dr Arif Alvi and Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Sunday issued separate messages on the eve of Christmas felicitating members of Christian community on the occasion while also highlighting the right of minorities under the Constitution.

&ldquo;Our religion, Islam fully recognises and protects the rights of minorities. The Government of Pakistan provides equal opportunities to all citizens irrespective of their colour, class and creed,&rdquo; President Dr Arif said in his statement.

He referred to the Quaid-e-Azam&rsquo;s historic speech of August 11, 1947 in which the founder of the nation stated that everyone, irrespective of colour, creed, and religion, would have equal rights, privileges, and obligations and complete religious freedom in the state of Pakistan.

&ldquo;As we gather with family and friends to celebrate the festive occasion, let us also remember the values that bind us together as a nation&mdash;respect for diversity, protection of minority rights, and a commitment to building a tolerant and inclusive society,&rdquo; he said.

Extending his warmest and heartfelt greetings to the Christian community on the joyous occasion, he assured them that the government is committed to ensuring the protection of the rights of all religious minorities in Pakistan.

&ldquo;Together, we can work towards a brighter and more harmonious future for our great nation,&rdquo; he said.

Caretaker PM Anwaarul Haq Kakar said the Christian community has laid down their lives for strengthening the foundation of the country and for its integrity and solidarity.

Read also:&nbsp;Extensive Christmas security planned

The PM said the Prophet of Allah Hazrat Essa (AS) healed the pain of humanity and took the message of God to the whole of humanity. Hazrat Essa (AS), the PM said, reformed humanity with teachings of peace, brotherhood, tolerance and forbearance which led to the success of humans.

&ldquo;The moral teachings and the guidance of the Prophet were a beacon for humanity for all times to come. In the present age, there is an acute need to follow Hazrat Essa&#39;s message of human compassion, affection, tolerance and fraternity,&rdquo; he added.

He said the state and every citizen have the responsibility to protect places of worship.

The PM said the white colour in Pakistan&#39;s flag represents minorities including the Christian community which played a vital role in the progress and development of the country in all fields including defence, judiciary, arts, sports and education.

&quot;The issues faced by Pakistan can only be resolved when we rise above the distinctions of colour, ethnicity, and religion and work day and night as a united nation for the progress of the country.

&ldquo;Pakistan is our home and on this occasion of Christmas we should pledge that together we will make Pakistan a model of religious tolerance and brotherhood and play our foremost role in taking our country out of all kinds of difficulties,&quot; he concluded.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/prime-minister-anwaarul-haq-president-arif-alvi1698584557-0/prime-minister-anwaarul-haq-president-arif-alvi1698584557-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Christmas preparations spark joyful anticipation</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2449725/christmas-preparations-spark-joyful-anticipation</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2449725/christmas-preparations-spark-joyful-anticipation#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 11 Dec 23 19:58:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2449725</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Festival proves to be a blessing for shopkeepers, who earn good business by selling festival-related essentials]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Christmas is around the corner to spread joy in the cold, wintry December, with the majority of the Christian community in the federal capital having started the initial preparations for passionately celebrating the festival.

Like every year, the main markets and shops of the capital city have started displaying a variety of Christmas-related accessories to attract customers.

Every year, the Christian community, with the advent of December, starts their preparations by buying all the stuff, including dresses, shoes, and other accessories, to mark the occasion in a befitting manner.

Those who cannot afford to shop for their family at the main markets and malls during the prevailing price hike situation are also visiting the flea markets to buy second-hand clothes to become a part of this festival.

Read&nbsp;Christmas preparations gain momentum

Samina Masih, a mother of three school-going children, said my husband is a cab driver and not earning much. We are hardly managing the educational expenses of our children.&quot;

Due to the price hike situation, it has become impossible to buy new clothes and shoes for my children, so I have decided to opt for the flea market to buy stuff for the occasion, she said.

The festival proves to be a blessing for the shopkeepers, who earn good business by selling festival-related essentials.

&quot;Christmas is the main festival during this winter season, through which we can earn good profits through selling decorative ornaments, chocolates, flowers, and gift items in bulk,&quot; Abid Ali, a shop owner at F-7 Markaz, said.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 12th, 2023.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1017272-ChristmasTreeAbidNawazExpressx-1451249570/1017272-ChristmasTreeAbidNawazExpressx-1451249570.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Pakistan ‘promoting’ interfaith harmony</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2449756/pakistan-promoting-interfaith-harmony</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2449756/pakistan-promoting-interfaith-harmony#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 12 Dec 23 04:55:57 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2449756</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA['Spirit of interfaith harmony and religious tolerance permeates Pakistan', Pakistani envoy says]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan was striving to build tolerance and religious pluralism, Ambassador Masood Khan told a special event to celebrate Christmas held at the Pakistani Embassy here on Sunday.

&ldquo;The spirit of interfaith harmony and religious tolerance permeates Pakistan,&rdquo; the Pakistani envoy said in his remarks at the gathering that included religious leaders of all faiths, including Muslims, Christians, Sikhs and Hindus.

Christians, he said, were an essential and integral part of Pakistan&rsquo;s polity and state and their influence and impact over years had increased exponentially.

In this regard, Masood highlighted the significant presence of the Christian community members in the mainstream of national life, including judiciary, civil service, armed forces, parliament, education and other professional fields.

&ldquo;We owe a lot to the Christian community,&rdquo; he said.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1274887-christmastreewithpresentsv-1482700111/1274887-christmastreewithpresentsv-1482700111.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Ukraine rejects Putin call for Christmas truce</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2394405/ukraine-rejects-putin-call-for-christmas-truce</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2394405/ukraine-rejects-putin-call-for-christmas-truce#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 05 Jan 23 18:44:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2394405</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[There would be no truce until Russia withdraws its invading forces from occupied land, says official]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Ukraine spurned an announcement by Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday of a 36-hour ceasefire to mark Orthodox Christmas, saying there would be no truce until Russia withdraws its invading forces from occupied land.

The Kremlin said Putin had ordered a ceasefire from midday on Friday after a call for a Christmas truce from Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church.

&quot;Taking into account the appeal of His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, I instruct the Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation to introduce a ceasefire regime along the entire line of contact of the parties in Ukraine from 12:00 on January 6, 2023 to 24:00 on January 7, 2023,&quot; Putin said in the order.

&quot;Proceeding from the fact that a large number of citizens professing Orthodoxy live in the areas of hostilities, we call on the Ukrainian side to declare a ceasefire and allow them to attend services on Christmas Eve, as well as on Christmas Day,&quot; Putin said.

But Ukrainian presidential adviser Mikhailo Podolyak tweeted back that Russia &quot;must leave the occupied territories - only then will it have a &#39;temporary truce&#39;. Keep hypocrisy to yourself.&quot;

He said that unlike Russia, Ukraine was not attacking foreign territory or killing civilians, only destroying &quot;members of the occupation army on its territory&quot;.

Podolyak had earlier rejected Kirill&#39;s call for a truce as &quot;a cynical trap and an element of propaganda&quot;. He described the Russian Orthodox Church, which has endorsed Russia&#39;s invasion, as a &quot;war propagandist&quot;.

Ukraine has previously said any Russian call for a ceasefire would be an attempt by Moscow to secure some respite for its troops, which Ukraine is trying to force from territory Russia seized after its invasion last February.

Russia&#39;s Orthodox Church observes Christmas on Jan 7. Ukraine&#39;s main Orthodox Church has rejected the authority of the Moscow patriarch, and many Ukrainian believers have shifted their calendar to celebrate Christmas on Dec 25 as in the West.

Mediation spurned

Earlier on Thursday, Russia and Ukraine made clear there would be no peace talks between them any time soon, effectively spurning an offer of mediation by Turkey&#39;s President Tayyip Erdogan, who spoke separately to both Putin and Ukraine&#39;s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

The Kremlin said Putin had told Erdogan Moscow was ready for talks - but only under the condition that Ukraine &quot;take into account the new territorial realities&quot;, a reference to Kyiv acknowledging Moscow&#39;s annexation of Ukrainian territory.

Ukraine&#39;s Podolyak called that demand &quot;fully unacceptable&quot;.

Ten months after Putin ordered an invasion of his neighbour and seized swathes of Ukrainian land, Russia and Ukraine have both entered the new year with hardened diplomatic positions.

After major battlefield victories in the second half of 2022, Kyiv is increasingly confident it can drive Russian invaders from more of its land.

Putin, for his part, has shown no willingness to discuss relinquishing his territorial conquests, despite mounting losses among his troops, after he ordered the first call-up of reservists since World War Two.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Zelenskiy1668701951-0/Zelenskiy1668701951-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>'You have lung cancer' UK patients told in Christmas error</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2393471/you-have-lung-cancer-uk-patients-told-in-christmas-error</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2393471/you-have-lung-cancer-uk-patients-told-in-christmas-error#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 30 Dec 22 14:31:14 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2393471</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The error was an apology 20 minutes later from Askern Medical Practice in South Yorkshire]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A doctors&#39; surgery in England has apologised after sending patients a text telling them they had advanced lung cancer instead of wishing them a merry Christmas, reports said on Thursday.

&quot;Diagnosis -- Aggressive lung cancer with metastases. Thanks,&quot; read the misfired text received by a number of patients.

It added that one of the surgery&#39;s doctors had asked for them to be given a form for people with terminal illness.

That was followed just over 20 minutes later by an apology from the Askern Medical Practice, near Doncaster, South Yorkshire.

Read more:&nbsp;Christmas celebrated amid strict security

&quot;Please accept out sincere apologies for the previous text message sent. This has been sent in error,&quot; it said.

&quot;Our message to you should have read. We wish you a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.&quot;

It was not clear how many people received the botched message which was sent out just before Christmas.

One recipient, property developer Chris Reed, 57, had been waiting for lung cancer test results.

He told The Sun daily his partner burst into tears when the text arrived.

Reed tried to ring the surgery but found the lines jammed before rushing there and being reassured by a doctor that his results were in fact negative.

The surgery was not immediately available for comment.

&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1117791-lungs-1465277155/1117791-lungs-1465277155.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Christmas brings cheer to Christian community</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392856/christmas-brings-cheer-to-christian-community</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392856/christmas-brings-cheer-to-christian-community#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 25 Dec 22 20:06:35 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category><category><![CDATA[Karachi]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2392856</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Special prayers held in Churches, neighbourhoods, decorated]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Christian community celebrated their religious festival of Christmas in Karachi on Sunday with great jubilation.

Christmas prayers were held in all the churches of the city in which prayer leaders explained the teachings of Jesus.

Church choirs presented hymns, carols on the occasion, while special prayers were offered for peace, security, prosperity and development of the country.

The Christian neighbourhoods were bustling with activity amid special Christmas events, family gatherings and entertainments like swings and musical events. People had decorated their homes with Christmas trees, stars and electric lamps. In various Christmas celebrations, Christmas cakes were cut and Santa Claus distributed gifts among the children.

Men, women, youths, children of the Christian community were in their best dresses on Christmas Eve. They congratulate each other on Christmas. Cakes and other gifts were exchanged. Special feasts were arranged in homes on the occasion of Christmas. Special dishes were prepared for this occasion. A lot of excitement was seen in the areas of Christian localities across the city regarding Christmas.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah while congratulating the Christian community on Christmas said that today&#39;s day gives a message of peace, love and brotherhood. He further said that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah has spoken of equal rights for all Pakistanis.

IG Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon while congratulating the Christian community on Christmas has said that providing foolproof security to the minority community is part of Sindh Police&#39;s priorities. Like other nations, minority communities are also a part of our society.

The IG Sindh has issued instructions that the Sindh Police should make overall security arrangements extraordinary on the occasion of Christmas. Security should be ensured at all churches in accordance with the exact contingency plan.

On the occasion of Christmas, the Christian community&#39;s festival, Tehreek-e-Insaf Karachi President Bilal Ghaffar visited the local churches of Constituency NA 244 PS 104. Bilal Ghaffar visited 18 small and big churches located in Azam Basti, Akhtar Colony and Manzoor Colony. Bilal Ghaffar attended the functions of the Christian community and cut the cake.

While the Christian community celebrated Christmas celebrations across the city, the administration of the Central Jail Karachi also organized a celebration for the prisoners belonging to the Christian community.

Special cakes were ordered for the prisoners. The ceremony started with the cutting of the cake, after which a special prayer ceremony was held.

&nbsp;

Published in The Express Tribune, December 26th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/41671916743-2/41671916743-2.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Christmas celebrated amid strict security</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392885/christmas-celebrated-amid-strict-security</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392885/christmas-celebrated-amid-strict-security#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 26 Dec 22 05:10:01 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category><category><![CDATA[Lahore]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2392885</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Over 6,000 police officers were deployed for the occasions]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Capital City Police Officer Lahore (CCPO) Ghulam Mahmood Dogar lauded the performance of Lahore Police for ensuring foolproof security arrangements on the eves of Quaid-e-Azam Day and Christmas.

He acknowledged the efforts of all wings of Lahore Police, including Traffic Police, Dolphin Squad and the Police Response Unit, for devising a strategy and plan of action to stop antisocial elements from disturbing the peace and maintaining law and order in the city.

Over 6,000 police officers were deployed for the occasions. CCPO Lahore directed DIG and SSP Operations and all divisional SPs to remain in the field and personally ensure implementation of the devised security plan. Accordingly, stringent security arrangements were made on the eves of Quaid&#39;s Day and Christmas.

Special contingents of Dolphin Squad and PRU were deployed at churches, parks, Christmas Bazars and other important public places, who ensured continuous and effective patrolling. Due to the stringent security arrangements of Lahore Police no untoward incident occurred in the city and law and situation remained in control.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/77551175216404006981640418057-0/77551175216404006981640418057-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Christmas celebrated with zeal, enthusiasm</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392866/christmas-celebrated-with-zeal-enthusiasm</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392866/christmas-celebrated-with-zeal-enthusiasm#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 26 Dec 22 03:44:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2392866</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Special ceremonies, prayers were held across country]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Christian community across Pakistan, like other parts of the world, celebrated the grand festival of Christmas on Sunday with traditional zeal and enthusiasm.

The festival was marked by the Christian community through different activities, including official gatherings, cake-cutting ceremonies, illuminating houses and observing prayers in churches.

Special cake-cutting ceremonies were arranged at different ministries and departments on Friday, which was the last working day, to share the happiness of the festival with the Christian staff members and acknowledge their contributions.

Special services were held in churches across the country and prayers were offered for peace, progress and prosperity of Pakistan as well as for the safety of all humanity from natural disasters and diseases.

The main attractions of the Christmas festival included the traditions like decorating Christmas trees, the arrival of Santa Clause, offering prayers in churches, singing carols and distributing Christmas gifts which added charm to the festivity.

The main ritual of the Christmas celebration is the decoration of the Christmas tree to welcome the arrival of Santa Claus also known as Father Christmas.

The Christmas tree is usually decked with different ornaments including baubles, small bells painted in gold or silver, stars of different shapes and sizes, pine cones, apples, candies, tinsel and balloons made from glass, metal, wood and ceramic.

An angel and a star is often placed at the top of the tree representing the host of angels.

To mark the Christmas festival, the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa) arranged special programmes on Friday at the Pakistan National Heritage Museum to mark Christmas in collaboration with UP Church and Saint Thomas Church in Islamabad.

The activities included a cake-cutting ceremony, the congregation of the Christian community, the erection of the Christmas tree, the exhibition of artisans-at-work, the distribution of sweets among children by Santa Claus, Christmas songs, folk songs and dances.

Islamabad Traffic Police (Traffic Wing) on Friday arranged a ceremony in connection with Christmas and distributed gifts among the employees.

A magnificent event was arranged at Allama Iqbal Open University to show solidarity with the university&#39;s Christian employees which was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Nasir Mahmood.

It has been observed that a number of shopping malls, offices and hotels in the capital have placed decked Christmas trees to attract visitors, especially children while the Christian community has also set up different bazaars at their nearest places offering a variety of stuff related to the festival.

The Islamabad police ensured comprehensive security arrangements on the eve of Christmas and special deployment at Churches and public places.

According to the police, more than 1,500 policemen were deployed around churches in Islamabad and foolproof security arrangements were planned for Christmas and special checking outside the churches.

It has been observed that a number of stalls were set up outside the Katchi Abadis where majority of the Christian community reside. The stalls&#39; owners displayed a variety of decorative ornaments as well as the dress of Santa Claus which was a source of attraction for the youngsters and children.

Different brands and eateries in the federal capital offered good discounts on the occasion of Christmas to attract more customers.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1274900-christmastreewithpresentsv-1482700371/1274900-christmastreewithpresentsv-1482700371.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Pele's family gather at hospital bedside for Christmas</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392818/peles-family-gather-at-hospital-bedside-for-christmas</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392818/peles-family-gather-at-hospital-bedside-for-christmas#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 25 Dec 22 10:50:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sports]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2392818</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Football great’s daughter Kely’s Instagram post says their brother Edinho also joins them]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Family members visited the legendary Pele on Saturday at the Sao Paulo hospital where he is suffering from worsening cancer as well as kidney and heart problems, according to a social media post by his daughter.

Edinho, Pele&#39;s son &ndash; who was recently appointed coach of Serie B football club Londrina, based in Parana in the north &ndash; arrived on Christmas Eve at the medical centre, where he joined his sisters Flavia and Kely Nascimento.

&quot;He arrived,&quot; Kely wrote on her Instagram next to a photo with Edinho, and another with daughters Sophia and Stephany.

The ex-goalkeeper arrived a day after having explained his absence at his father&#39;s side to local media.

&quot;I would like to be present, but I am committed to my mission here. I&#39;m not a doctor, I couldn&#39;t really help much,&quot; he said in an interview published on Friday by the daily Estadao.

That same day, Kely shared a photo of herself hugging her 82-year-old father in the hospital with the caption &quot;one more night together.&quot;

On Wednesday, the Albert Einstein Hospital, where the three-time World Cup winner is staying, announced that his colon cancer was showing &quot;progression&quot; and he needed &quot;more extensive care to treat kidney and heart failure.&quot;

Earlier that day his daughters had announced he would not be home for Christmas.

The atmosphere was calm outside of the hospital on Saturday, according to AFP.

Pele is considered by many to be the greatest footballer of all time and has received several messages of support since his hospitalization, including from the French star Kylian Mbappe, who called on followers to &quot;pray for the King.&quot;

Pele was hospitalized in Sao Paulo on November 29 for what his medical team called a re-evaluation of his chemotherapy treatments, which he has been receiving since having surgery to remove a colon tumor in September 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Pele1671965518-0/Pele1671965518-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Pope Francis conducts traditional Christmas service at Vatican</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392812/pope-francis-conducts-traditional-christmas-service-at-vatican</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392812/pope-francis-conducts-traditional-christmas-service-at-vatican#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 25 Dec 22 08:52:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadolu Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2392812</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[7,000 people watch Christmas Mass in Vatican's famous St. Peter's Basilica]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A ceremony led by Pope Francis was held Sunday at the Vatican for the Christmas Festival, which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ in Christianity.

This year, 7,000 people watched Christmas Mass held at the Vatican&#39;s famous St. Peter&#39;s Basilica with limited participation for the last two years because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The pope warned about greed and consumption and said people have been consuming their neighbors and even their brothers due to their hunger for power and money.

Emphasizing that the poor should not be forgotten at Christmas, he said he also thinks of children victimized by wars.

Francis, the spiritual leader of the Catholic world, will address the traditional &quot;Urbi et Orbi,&quot; or Rome and the world, in which he gives messages about world issues, after Christmas Mass at noon.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Pope-francis-reuters1617540431-0/Pope-francis-reuters1617540431-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Christmas bazaars set up in Bhakkar</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392726/christmas-bazaars-set-up-in-bhakkar</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392726/christmas-bazaars-set-up-in-bhakkar#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 24 Dec 22 21:10:52 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Rana Amir]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2392726</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Deputy Commissioner terms Christmas celebrations a message of peace, security]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Extraordinary arrangements have been made for security and other administrative matters in connection with the Quaid-e-Azam Day and the Christmas festival in Bhakkar. 

Fourteen Christmas bazaars have been set up selling clothes, artificial jewellery and decorative toys in addition to food items of daily use at cheaper rates.

The Revenue Department, the Rescue 1122, the Health Department, Traffic Police and other relevant departments have been given responsibilities and duties. 

In the light of the orders of the Punjab government, the administration is focusing on the welfare of the Christian community and orders have been issued to the relevant officers to finalize all arrangements including security on the occasion of Christmas. 

Cleanliness in the district on the occasion of Christmas, installation of streetlights outside churches, availability of CCTV cameras in functional condition, establishment of walkthrough gates and other administrative matters have been completed.

Foolproof security arrangements have also been made for Christmas celebrations. Orders have also been issued to the traffic police to prepare a special traffic plan in connection with the Quaid-e-Azam Day and Christmas programs. 

The Deputy Commissioner of Bhakkar, Imran Hussain Ranjha, said that Christmas rituals were a message of peace and security. In this context, the flag of unity would be kept aloft. 

Later, Commissioner Maryam Khan cut a cake along with the Christian community and presented them with gifts.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 25th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1442464-image-1498155783/1442464-image-1498155783.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>All set for Christmas today</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392746/all-set-for-christmas-today</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392746/all-set-for-christmas-today#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 24 Dec 22 21:20:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category><category><![CDATA[Karachi]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2392746</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Community holds special prayers for peace, prosperity of the country]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Christian community is all set to observe their religious festival of Christmas across the country today. 

A series of mid-night masses was held in all the churches in the city on Saturday night. All the churches in the city, including St. Patrick&#39;s and Holy Trinity, are hosting Christmas prayers. 

Electric lights and Christmas trees were used to elegantly decorate the churches for the festival. 

The Christian religious leaders provided the context of Jesus&#39; teachings at the masses on the Christmas Eve while carols were also performed especially for this occasion. On the occasion, special prayers were offered for peace, security, prosperity and development in the country. These prayer gatherings will go on until Sunday evening. 

The special gatherings on account of the festival are taking place in the districts of Keamari, Lyari, Ranchhod Line, Saddar, Mauripur, Paharganj, FC Area, Essa Nagri, Korangi, Musharraf Colony, and other areas.

Christians use electric lanterns, Christmas trees, and stars to decorate their houses. Santa Claus presents gifts to the kids, while the community cuts Christmas cakes during various celebrations. Along with wishing one other a Merry Christmas, cakes and other presents are given to each other while feasts are organised in homes on the occasion with special meals. The Christian excitement is at the peak across the country.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 25th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/41671916743-2/41671916743-2.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Foolproof security devised ahead of Christmas</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392562/foolproof-security-devised-ahead-of-christmas</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2392562/foolproof-security-devised-ahead-of-christmas#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 23 Dec 22 20:53:13 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[app]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category><category><![CDATA[Rawalpindi]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2392562</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[All churches divided into three categories and police personnel including Elite Force commandos would be deployed]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Rawalpindi District Police has devised a foolproof security plan according to which 3,200 police personnel will be deployed to avoid any untoward situation on the eve of Christmas.

Under the security plan, all churches have been divided into three categories and police personnel including Elite Force commandos would be deployed to ensure foolproof security in the garrison city.

According to a Police spokesman, no one would be allowed to park their vehicles near churches. Walk-through gates would be installed at the entrance of the churches and the incoming visitors would be checked through metal detectors. Best possible security arrangements would be ensured to avoid any untoward incident in the city, he claimed.

The security duty at public places including parks would be made more efficient, he said adding that security had also been tightened at the entry and exit points of the city and special checking was ordered for this special occasion. He said that the City Police Officer (CPO) Rawalpindi Syed Shehzad Nadeem Bukhari had directed the SPs, DSPs and SHOs to ensure effective patrolling in their respective areas.

&nbsp;

Published in The Express Tribune, December 24th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1080199-ChristmasPeshawarEPAx-1459978920/1080199-ChristmasPeshawarEPAx-1459978920.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Security for Christmas finalised</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2390952/security-for-christmas-finalised</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2390952/security-for-christmas-finalised#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 13 Dec 22 19:31:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Imran Asghar]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2390952</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Around 3,000 personnel will be deployed for security of 300 churches]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Rawalpindi police have finalised a security plan for Christmas.

Sources said that it has been decided to take help from Elite Force commandos for the security of more than 300 churches and other places of worships.

Under the plan, as many as 3,000 police personnel including Elite Force commandos will be deployed to ensure foolproof security of Christian worship sites.

The security of the churches will be monitored through closed-circuit television cameras. A control room will also be set up where all security institutions will work jointly to keep an eye on the security arrangements.

Rawalpindi police sources said sharpshooters will be deployed on the rooftops of different buildings while walk-through gates will be established at entry points of all Churches on the eve of Christmas.

City Traffic Police will make arrangements for parking vehicles for the visitors of the churches and all parking lots will be set up some 100 feet away from the current parking spaces of the churches.

Sources said that the police and other law enforcement agencies have divided 300 churches and other worship places into A, B, and C categories according to the sensitivity of the area they are located in. The churches falling in A-category will have additional security personnel.

The sources said that the worshipers will be checked at three points. The roads adjoining the entry points of the churches will be sealed off with barbed wire while elite commandos and sniper shooters will be stationed atop buildings.

The police vans equipped with cameras will also remain stationed outside the churches on the eve of Christmas.

Senior police officers will hold meetings with the Christian community of Rawalpindi. To discuss security matters. Police guards will also be provided to ensure the safety of eminent priests.

Police sources said that foolproof security will be provided for midnight services on the eve of Christmas and on December 25.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 14th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/648866-christmasgifts-1387690114/648866-christmasgifts-1387690114.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Saudi Arabia denies importing Christmas trees</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2335737/saudi-arabia-denies-importing-christmas-trees</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2335737/saudi-arabia-denies-importing-christmas-trees#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 26 Dec 21 14:19:13 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadolu Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2335737</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Kingdom's customs authority says it is prohibited to import any religious signs other than Islam]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Saudi Arabia has denied media reports about importing Christmas trees and Santa Claus outfits.

The Saudi Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority said that it is prohibited to import Christmas trees or any religious signs other than Islam.

The statement came in response to a question by a Twitter user on whether Christmas trees are now allowed into the kingdom.

Foreign media reports earlier said that Christmas trees, decorations and Santa Claus outfits were now being sold at stores in the oil-rich kingdom.

Christian foreigners working in Saudi Arabia, mainly from Lebanon and the Philippines, are used to celebrating Christmas behind closed doors.

Saudi Arabia has seen a host of rapid social, cultural and economic changes in recent years, initiated by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1274887-christmastreewithpresentsv-1482700111/1274887-christmastreewithpresentsv-1482700111.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>PM, ministers felicitate Christian community on Christmas</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2335615/pm-ministers-felicitate-christian-community-on-christmas</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2335615/pm-ministers-felicitate-christian-community-on-christmas#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 25 Dec 21 07:34:10 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2335615</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[President, PM assure community govt will continue to safeguard rights of minorities]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Christian community of Pakistan is celebrating Christmas across the country today, alongside other Christians across the globe.

Special services were held in churches and prayers were offered for peace, progress and the prosperity of Pakistan.

President Dr Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan in their separate messages, while congratulating the Christian community, have assured them that the government will continue to safeguard the rights and privileges of all minorities living in the country.

They also commended sincere and invaluable services rendered by the Christian community in the fields of defence, education, health as well as economic development of the country.

They emphasised that the government would empower the minorities to use their abilities for national development.

Prime Minister Imran Khan felicitated the Christian community&nbsp;around the world on the auspicious occasion of Christmas.

In a statement, the premier said, &ldquo;On the auspicious occasion of Christmas, I on my behalf and on behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan extend heartfelt congratulations to the Christian community around the world and especially in Pakistan for celebrating the festival of Christmas with devotion and respect.&rdquo;

Read Somber affair: Inflation dampens Christmas spirit

&ldquo;The festivities of Christmas teach us universal love, brotherhood, tolerance and self-sacrifice which plays a pivotal role in moving any society on the path of development,&rdquo; the premier added.

&ldquo;The birth of Prophet Jesus is considered a symbol of peace, brotherhood, tolerance and respect for the entire humanity throughout the world. He not only healed the ailing humanity but preached the divine values of tolerance, love and compassion. He guided people towards virtuous living and urged them to seek divine mercy. As a divine messenger, Prophet Jesus&rsquo; teachings are for adherents of all religions.&rdquo;

PM Imran further stated that the sincere and invaluable services rendered by the Christian community in the fields of defence, education, health as well as economic development of the country had always been commendable.

&ldquo;Being equal citizens of the state, the government will empower them to use their abilities for national development. Our policies are geared towards creating harmony and cohesion between people of all faiths,&rdquo; he maintained.

PM Imran said, &ldquo;Our government is doing its utmost duty to bring you into the national mainstream so that you can play your role as active citizens in the society in a positive way and help this country move on the path of development.&rdquo;

According to the premier, Pakistan&rsquo;s constitution enshrined Quaid-e-Azam&rsquo;s vision and safeguarded the legitimate interests of minorities, adding that the Quaid had assured religious freedom and security for all communities irrespective of their religion, profession and ethnic origin.

He emphasised that the government of Pakistan held sacrosanct the equality and freedom of conscience of all citizens irrespective of belief, creed or religion.

The present government will continue to safeguard the rights and privileges enjoyed by all minorities, he said.

&ldquo;We are committed to building a society that respects difference and finds strength in diversity; a nation that is tolerant and cohesive; and a state that provides equal rights and opportunities to all citizens,&rdquo; PM Imran concluded.

The premier also took to his official Twitter handle to wish the community a happy Christmas.



Wishing all our Christian citizens a very Happy Christmas.
&mdash; Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 25, 2021


&nbsp;

Moreover, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Chaudhry Fawad Hussain said that protecting the rights of minorities in Pakistan was the &quot;topmost&quot; priority of the incumbent PTI government.

In a message, he also congratulated the Christian community on Christmas and said that the entire nation shared this happy occasion.

The minister stated that the Constitution of Pakistan guaranteed the rights of minorities.

Fawad further added that Christian citizens have played a vital role in the country&rsquo;s development and prosperity.

&ldquo;The services of the Christian community in education, health and other areas of life are commendable,&rdquo;&nbsp;he maintained.

Read more 6,000 cops deployed for Christmas security

Federal Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar and Minister for Human Rights Dr Shireen Mizari also felicitated the community.



Wishing all Christians a very merry Christmas
&mdash; Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) December 25, 2021




Wishing all those celebrating, a happy and peaceful Christmas. pic.twitter.com/aJR43mnnvE
&mdash; Shireen Mazari (@ShireenMazari1) December 24, 2021


(WITH INPUT FROM APP)]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/77551175216404006981640418057-0/77551175216404006981640418057-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Karachi bakery in hot water for refusing to write 'Merry Christmas' on cake</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2335168/karachi-bakery-in-hot-water-for-refusing-to-write-merry-christmas-on-cake</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2335168/karachi-bakery-in-hot-water-for-refusing-to-write-merry-christmas-on-cake#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 22 Dec 21 17:52:15 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2335168</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[An employee of the bakery chain reportedly refused to do the icing, citing 'kitchen order']]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Delizia, a Karachi-based chain of bakeries, has found itself in hot water after one of its employees allegedly refused to write &#39;Merry Christmas&#39; on a cake, citing an &#39;order from the kitchen&#39;.

The incident was reported by a woman customer who went to the bakery&#39;s DHA branch to get a cake to make the most of the occasion.

According to the customer, she went to the store located in Khayaban-e-Jami branch to get the cake but the worker refused to inscribe the words on her cake, citing an &quot;order&quot; from the kitchen to not do so.



The incident caused an uproar on social media platforms, with people expressing shock at the occurrence, while Delizia is yet to respond on the development with a formal stance.

Surprisingly, this isn&#39;t the first time that the company faced backlash over the refusal to &#39;do the icing&#39;.

In 2018, a woman was refused the &#39;Merry Christmas&#39; icing and told that it was so, on the &quot;company&#39;s instructions&quot;.

While some Twitterati called out Delizia for failing to comply with the demand, others simply attributed the refusal to the bakery being &#39;short of icing&#39;. Some went as far to call for a boycott of the company. One social media user shared that it was an individual&#39;s act and didn&#39;t represent the &#39;company&#39;s policy&#39;.



World going to mars
meanwhile Pakistanis: we won&rsquo;t write merry Christmas on cakes cause company orders #delizia
&mdash; Baakh (@bnusrat) December 22, 2021




Just heard #delizia in #Karachi abandoned a Christian customer&#39;s request to write #MerryChristmas on her cake since they were instructed not to. Religious intolerance is still in the roots.
&mdash; Engr. Zeerak Ullah (@theotherboysays) December 22, 2021




I have personally seen people run paid campaigns against delizia simply bcs delizia has taken over the cake and cupcake scene in Karachi.
About the recent Christmas scandal, why not ask them to investigate instead of calling for a boycott??
&mdash; AMNA (@paki__stan) December 22, 2021




Delizia has turned mehmood sweets
&mdash; Lone Wolf (@Strap61977088) December 22, 2021




Spoke to a representative of #delizia, they are out of icing apparently, hence the refusal. Do not know how a bakery runs out of icing but do know they didnt write happy birthday on the cake my colleague bought for my birthday today!
&mdash; Nida Khan Tareen (@NidaTareen) December 22, 2021




You guys have nothing better to do ? Spamming Delizia for the lone act of their staff at one of their branches , I&rsquo;ve seen a lady get merry Christmas written on the cake at their boat basin outlet and the staff happily did so
&mdash; High (@talkingcurves) December 22, 2021


&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Deli1640195578-0/Deli1640195578-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Queen Elizabeth cancels pre-Christmas lunch as Covid cases soar</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2334206/queen-elizabeth-cancels-pre-christmas-lunch-as-covid-cases-soar</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2334206/queen-elizabeth-cancels-pre-christmas-lunch-as-covid-cases-soar#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 16 Dec 21 16:31:14 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2334206</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[England's chief medical officer warned people on Wednesday not to mix with others]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Queen Elizabeth has cancelled a pre-Christmas lunch with her family as a precaution while cases of Covid-19 soar in Britain, a Buckingham Palace source said.

&quot;The decision is a precautionary one as it is felt to put too many people&#39;s Christmas arrangements at risk if it went ahead.

Read more:&nbsp;Barbados ditches Britain&#39;s Queen Elizabeth to become a republic

&quot;While there is regret that it is cancelled, there is a belief it is the right thing to do for all.&quot;

England&#39;s chief medical officer warned people on Wednesday not to mix with others unless they have to in the run-up to Christmas after Britain recorded its most daily coronavirus cases since the start of the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;UK&#39;s Queen Elizabeth appears in good spirits after health concerns

Britain&#39;s 95-year-old monarch spent the majority of the pandemic at Windsor Castle to the west of London. Her husband Prince Philip died in April this year after more than seven decades of marriage.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Queen-Elizabeth-21634663451-0/Queen-Elizabeth-21634663451-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Mexican families scale down Christmas celebrations as pandemic ravages Mexico</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277481/mexican-families-scale-down-christmas-celebrations-as-pandemic-ravages-mexico</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277481/mexican-families-scale-down-christmas-celebrations-as-pandemic-ravages-mexico#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 26 Dec 20 07:12:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2277481</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The pandemic has killed more than 120,000 in Mexico this year]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Families across Mexico scaled down Christmas festivities to avoid the spread of coronavirus, while others spent the holiday alone after having lost loved ones to the pandemic that has killed more than 120,000 in Mexico this year.

In Mexico City, 33-year-old street vendor Wendolin Garcia Ramos&rsquo; apartment was decorated with festive Christmas lights and a decked-out tree. But she spent Christmas Eve alone after the pandemic claimed the lives of her fianc&eacute;, as well as his parents and his brother.

&ldquo;We had so many plans,&rdquo; she said as she wiped away tears, standing next to an altar of photographs of her lost loved ones. &ldquo;This coming year we were planning on marrying,&rdquo; she said.

Marcela Hernandez and her husband, Juan Carlos Roque, held a small Christmas Eve dinner with their two children at their home in the State of Mexico.

Both parents are doctors, and their son is also studying medicine. They decided to video-call with the rest of their family members, rather than risk exposing them.

&ldquo;It&rsquo;s so tragic in this moment how families are missing mothers, or fathers, or brothers, or children. How some families have been completely dismemebered,&rdquo; said Juan Carlos Roque, who on Thursday received one of the very first doses of the coronavirus vaccine administered in Mexico.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/download-(4)1608966608-0/download-(4)1608966608-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Christmas celebrated with fervour in twin cities</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277457/christmas-celebrated-with-fervour-in-twin-cities</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277457/christmas-celebrated-with-fervour-in-twin-cities#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 26 Dec 20 04:14:38 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Islamabad]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2277457</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Prayers offered for an end to the pandemic across the world]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Christmas was celebrated by the Christian community in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi with fervour and enthusiasm like the rest of the country. Christian devotees went to churches for the Christmas Mass in large numbers.

The prayer ceremonies were held in the churches under the standard operating procedures (SOPs) devised for the prevention of novel coronavirus disease (Covid-19). Special prayers were offered for peace in the country and an end to the pandemic across the world.

In Rawalpindi, St Joseph&#39;s Catholic Church in Lalkurti held prayer ceremonies. The prayer service began at 10:30am and bells rang in the churches which were beautifully decorated. A large number of men and women, elders and children from the Christian community attended the Mass. Bishop of Rawalpindi Joseph Arshad gave the main sermon of the day. Rawalpindi police had tightened security at 109 churches and public parks on Christmas Eve.

More than 4,000 Rawalpindi police officers and personnel were deployed to ensure security. Coronavirus SOPs were strictly enforced by the Christian community and church administrations. Islamabad Police as per their security plan for Christmas in the federal capital had deployed over 1,000 security personnel including policewomen to perform their duties around churches in different parts of the city. To express solidarity and celebrate Christmas with Christian minority Station Commander Rwp and President Chaklala and Rawalpindi Cantonment Boards Brig Ijaz Qamar Kiani along with his wife visited St Paul&#39;s Church on the invitation of Pastor Reverend Samuel Titus.

A number of shopping malls and hotels in the capital also placed decked Christmas trees to attract the visitors especially children. The Christian communities decorated their residential colonies with lightings, displayed stalls carrying different attractions like Santa Claus outfit, toys, Christmas tree etc to attract the children.

The Christmas tree is usually decked with different ornaments including baubles, small bells painted gold or silver, stars of different shapes and sizes, pine cones, apples, candies, tinsel and balloons made from glass, metal, wood and ceramic. It is pertinent to mention here that Islamabad Traffic Police deputed 162 policemen to ensure smooth flow of traffic in the capital on the occasion of Christmas. They performed duties at worship places, shopping malls, public places and markets to ensure smooth traffic flow on the occasion.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1016071-ChristmasTreeAbidNawazExpressx-1450991292/1016071-ChristmasTreeAbidNawazExpressx-1450991292.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Vehicle explosion rocks Nashville on Christmas, police call it an 'intentional act'</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277423/vehicle-explosion-rocks-nashville-on-christmas-police-call-it-an-intentional-act</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277423/vehicle-explosion-rocks-nashville-on-christmas-police-call-it-an-intentional-act#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 25 Dec 20 19:08:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2277423</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Police may have been the target given they were answering a report of a suspicious vehicle, says former FBI official]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A parked motor home exploded in downtown Nashville on Christmas morning in what police described as an &ldquo;intentional act,&rdquo; and fire officials reported taking three people to hospital but none were critically injured.

Police initially responded to an emergency call of &ldquo;shots fired&rdquo; in the downtown tourist area about 6 a.m. CST (1200 GMT), when they reported seeing the vehicle, said Nashville police spokesman Don Aaron, without specifying what made it suspicious.

&ldquo;Circumstances about the vehicle caused the officers to call the bomb squad,&rdquo; Aaron said. The bomb squad was on the way when the explosion occurred.

&ldquo;We do believe that the explosion was an intentional act,&rdquo; he said, describing the explosion as &ldquo;significant&rdquo; and adding that police were working with federal authorities including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Andrew McCabe, a former deputy FBI director, told CNN police may have been the target of the explosions given they were answering the report of a suspicious vehicle when it blew up. He said an explosion of this size would be investigated as a possible act of terrorism, whether domestic or foreign.

Moments before the blast, police officers went door-to-door in nearby buildings to hustle residents to safety and motioned a man walking his dog near the vehicle to change direction.

Police said it was not immediately clear if anyone was inside the motor home when it exploded.

The explosion, which could be felt nine blocks away, knocked one officer off his feet and caused what was hoped to be only a temporary hearing loss, the spokesman said. Residents reported seeing a number of other vehicles on fire amid the debris.

Most of the buildings were closed given the hour and Christmas holiday in the heart of the city, the capital of both the state of Tennessee and US country music.

&ldquo;There was trees lying everywhere, glass laying everywhere,&rdquo; Nashville resident Buck McCoy told CNN.

The explosion destroyed several other vehicles and damaged several buildings, launching black smoke in the sky that could be seen for miles.

&ldquo;We are not aware of any other attempted explosion,&rdquo; the spokesman said.

Nashville Mayor John Cooper urged people to stay away from the downtown area, as police and federal authorities investigated, aided by bomb dogs and surveillance camera footage.

President Donald Trump was briefed on the explosion, a White House spokesman said.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Nashville-explosion-REUTERS1608923228-0/Nashville-explosion-REUTERS1608923228-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Many just want a hug for Christmas this year, Queen Elizabeth says</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277416/many-just-want-a-hug-for-christmas-this-year-queen-elizabeth-says</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277416/many-just-want-a-hug-for-christmas-this-year-queen-elizabeth-says#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 25 Dec 20 16:05:27 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2277416</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[94-year-old monarch repeatedly spoke of hope for future in her pre-recorded Christmas Day address]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[All many people want for Christmas this year is a simple hug, Britain&rsquo;s Queen Elizabeth said in her annual festive message, saying it would be hard for those who lost loved ones to Covid-19 pandemic or were separated by curbs on social mixing.

In her traditional pre-recorded Christmas Day address to the nation, the 94-year-old monarch repeatedly spoke of hope for the future whilst acknowledging millions of Britons would be unable to have their usual family celebrations this year.

&ldquo;Of course for many, this time of year will be tinged with sadness; some mourning the loss of those dear to them, and others missing friends and family members distanced for safety when all they really want for Christmas is a simple hug or a squeeze of the hand,&rdquo; Elizabeth said.

&ldquo;If you are among them, you are not alone. And let me assure you of my thoughts and prayers.&rdquo;

The queen herself has had to eschew her traditional Christmas celebrations, and is spending the festive season quietly at Windsor Castle with her husband Prince Philip, 99.

Usually, all the Windsors gather at her home on the Sandringham estate in eastern England, the walk to a nearby church for a Christmas Day service is a staple of the royal calendar.

However, Britain is currently battling to curb the spread of a new variant of the novel coronavirus, with the number of new infections reaching record levels this week and the number of hospital admissions and death soaring.

Much of the country has been placed under tight restrictions, and for London and the surrounding areas, households are not allowed to mix at all over Christmas, while for other areas there are strict curbs limiting contact to just a single day.

&ldquo;Remarkably, a year that has necessarily kept people apart has in many ways brought us closer,&rdquo; said the queen, adding the royals had been inspired by stories of those who volunteered to help others in need.

&ldquo;In the United Kingdom and around the world, people have risen magnificently to the challenges of the year and I&rsquo;m so proud and moved by this quiet indomitable spirit.&rdquo;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Queen-Elizabeth-Christmas-REUTERS1608912246-0/Queen-Elizabeth-Christmas-REUTERS1608912246-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Don't squander sacrifices of 2020, WHO chief says in Christmas message</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277413/dont-squander-sacrifices-of-2020-who-chief-says-in-christmas-message</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277413/dont-squander-sacrifices-of-2020-who-chief-says-in-christmas-message#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 25 Dec 20 15:11:40 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2277413</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says vaccines starting to offer a way out of the crisis]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The sacrifices made to protect people during the coronavirus pandemic must not be squandered over the festive period, the World Health Organisation&#39;s chief said in a Christmas message.

Millions were making &quot;heart-wrenching sacrifices&quot; by staying away from loved ones on Christmas Day, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a video clip posted to Twitter late Thursday, while others will have a missing face at the family table.

He said vaccines, now beginning to be deployed in countries around the world, were starting to offer a way out of the crisis that has engulfed the planet this year.

&quot;As 2020 draws to an end, a pandemic of historic proportions is preventing many of us from celebrating in the ways we would like,&quot; Tedros said.

&quot;Instead, hundreds of millions of people are today making great, heart-wrenching sacrifices by staying apart to stay safe.

&quot;But in doing so, they are giving the most precious gifts: the gifts of life and health.&quot;

The novel coronavirus has killed at least 1.7 million people since the outbreak emerged in China last December, while almost 78.7 million cases have been registered, according to a tally from official sources compiled by AFP.

&quot;All around the world, throughout this most trying of years, we have seen over and over again the sacrifices of so many people to protect and preserve life,&quot; said Tedros.

&quot;We must not squander their sacrifices, nor those made by so many families who, this holiday season, will sit at family tables missing a familiar face.

&quot;Despite so much loss, we have built so much hope. Vaccines are offering the world a way out of this tragedy. But it will take time for the whole world to be vaccinated.&quot;

According to the WHO&#39;s overview of different candidate vaccines, 61 have entered human trials, 16 of which have reached final-stage mass testing.

A further 172 candidate vaccines are being developed in laboratories with a view to eventual human testing.

Tedros said: &quot;We must continue taking comfort in the fact that by caring for others, through acts of solidarity and safety, we can share the greatest gift of all: the gift of life.&quot;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2211725-whodgtedrosadhanomghebreyesusreuters-1588350921/2211725-whodgtedrosadhanomghebreyesusreuters-1588350921.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>In Pictures: Security arrangements over Christmas in Rawalpindi</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277370/in-pictures-security-arrangements-over-christmas-in-rawalpindi</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277370/in-pictures-security-arrangements-over-christmas-in-rawalpindi#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 25 Dec 20 07:11:59 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2277370</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[At least 3,800 security personnel deployed]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Authorities deployed more than 3,800 security personnel in Rawalpindi to ensure the safety of the Christian community over Christmas.

Under the security plan, no one will be allowed to park their vehicles near churches. Instead, the City Traffic Police (CTP) will make arrangements for parking in open areas which will be set up at least a 100 feet away from the buildings.

Moreover, walk-through gates have been installed at the entrance of churches and visitors will be checked using metal detectors. Security at public places, including parks, will also be enhanced for the occasion.



PHOTO:EXPRESS



PHOTO:EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS



PHOTO: EXPRESS

&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/27f1365a-2ad0-4503-b4e1-0b40169e33191608879811-0/27f1365a-2ad0-4503-b4e1-0b40169e33191608879811-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>PM Imran wishes Christian community 'Happy Christmas'</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277293/pm-imran-wishes-christian-community-happy-christmas</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277293/pm-imran-wishes-christian-community-happy-christmas#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 24 Dec 20 16:09:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Islamabad]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2277293</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Please stay safe by observing Covid-19 SOPs, advises premier as contagion sees uptick in the country]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[On the eve of Xmas, Prime Minister Imran Khan has wished the Christian community in Pakistan a happy Christmas.

&quot;Wishing all our Christian citizens a very Happy Christmas. Please stay safe by observing COVID 19 SOPs,&quot; he wrote on his official Twitter handle on Thursday.




Wishing all our Christian citizens a very Happy Christmas. Please stay safe by observing COVID 19 SOPs.
&mdash; Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 24, 2020



&nbsp;

Hundreds of millions of Christians world over mark December 25th as Christ&rsquo;s birthday.

The Christian community in Pakistan has started thronging shopping malls in order to buy new clothes and gifts for their relatives.

The community is also busy decorating their houses with Christmas trees, while events related to the occasion have been organised at various locations.

In Lahore, Christmas preparations in 97 churches of the provincial capital have been completed. These include Catholic, Protestant and other missionary churches. In the provincial capital, the biggest ceremony for the Catholic school of thought will be held at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Lawrence Road. Meanwhile, the largest event for Protestants will be organised at the Cathedral Church on Mall Road.

Similarly, Christmas events will be organised at St Anthony&rsquo;s Church, Naulakha Church and others where Christian leaders will hold prayers for the country&#39;s prosperity and safety.

The community in Islamabad, like other parts of the country, has started decorating evergreen coniferous tree to celebrate the biggest occasion Christmas in befitting manner.

The popular malls and hotels in the federal capital have also placed the decorated Christmas tree to share happiness of the Christian community to lure the visitors.

Christmas tree is the main symbol of the Christmas celebrations to welcome arrival of Santa Claus and to add colour to the festival with its attractive decorative look.

The members of Christian community decorate the evergreen coniferous tree, real or artificial, as a tradition associated with the celebration of Christmas. The tree is usually decked with different ornaments including baubles, small bells painted gold or silver, stars of different shapes and sizes, pine cones, apples, candies, tinsel and balloons made from glass, metal, wood and ceramic. An angel and star is often placed at the top of the tree representing the host of angels.

In Karachi, the port city&#39;s Commissioner Navid Ahmed Shaikh ordered the relevant authorities to ensure fool-proof security arrangements at churches for Christmas celebrations.

Chairing a meeting with the authorities and representatives of the Christian community on Monday, the new commissioner also instructed officials to carry out special cleaning campaigns and the provision of other civic facilities ahead of the annual festival.

He also directed the K-Electric to ensure uninterrupted power supply to the churches and other important locations, so the Christian community could celebrate Christmas without hassle.

Shaikh further asked deputy commissioners (DCs) to stay in touch with community representatives with regard to the provision of facilities and other arrangements, also telling them to set up complaint centres.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/imran-khan-file1605371052-0/imran-khan-file1605371052-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>LG minister orders release of pays to Christian employees</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277170/lg-minister-orders-release-of-pays-to-christian-employees</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277170/lg-minister-orders-release-of-pays-to-christian-employees#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 Dec 20 20:39:33 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2277170</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Issues instructions for cleanliness arrangements for Christmas; police devise security plan]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Sindh government has announced the release of salaries to a Christian employees ahead of Christmas. Salaries should be issued to all Christian employees by Thursday (today), said Sindh Local Government (LG) Minister on Wednesday, while issuing directives pertaining to arrangements for Christmas. 

No Christian employee should be deprived of advance salaries on the occasion of Christmas, he added, warning of taking strict action if he receives any complaints in this regard. He directed his department to ensure that the advance salaries are released for Christian employees in all local bodies by today. 

He further directed LG institutions, including district municipal corporations, municipal corporations and the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board, to complete the arrangements for Christmas across the province. 

The provincial LG minister particularly stressed ensuring cleanliness in the surroundings of churches and proper lighting arrangements at Christian places of worship. 

&quot;[Local bodies] should consult the management of churches on cleanliness and lighting at the places of worship,&quot; the minister added. 

Security plan

Besides, the police have devised a security plan for Christmas and the birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, both falling on December 25. 

The plan for Karachi was finalised during a meeting chaired by Karachi Police Chief Ghulam Nabi Memon earlier this week. 

In the meeting, SSPs briefed the participants about security arrangements, stating that 3,000 cops would be deployed across the city on the day. 

A large contingent of police will be deployed around the Quaid&#39;s mausoleum for providing security for the change of guards ceremony and other events organised in connection with Jinnah&#39;s birth anniversary, the meeting was told. 

Special Security Unit&#39;s snipers will be deployed on buildings in the vicinity of the Quaid&#39;s mausoleum and teams from the unit&#39;s SWAT force will be stationed across the city to deal with any untoward incident. 

Memon has directed senior police officials to remain in the field on the nights of December 24 and December 25, besides instructing cops to take strict action against persons involved in the sale and purchase of liquor. 

Cops have also been told to register cases against persons found involved in aerial firing, which is a non-bailable offence. 

WITH ADDITIONAL INPUT FROM APP 

Published in The Express Tribune, December 24th, 2020.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1275363-_zkn_ff_christmaspak-1482747789/1275363-_zkn_ff_christmaspak-1482747789.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>7 last minute DIY Christmas gifts for your loved ones</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277121/7-last-minute-diy-christmas-gifts-for-your-loved-ones</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2277121/7-last-minute-diy-christmas-gifts-for-your-loved-ones#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 23 Dec 20 11:46:11 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Entertainment Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2277121</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Here's a list of meaningful gifts that won't cost you an arm and a leg and can be made with ease at home!]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Yes, it takes a lot of time and energy, but that&#39;s what makes homemade gifts so special, epecially if you couldn&rsquo;t find the time to shop for your favourite holiday season earlier.

But then again, anyone can run out and purchase something from the store. And you may even find a Christmas present your recipient will love, but DIY Christmas goodies are just a tad bit more meaningful and heartfelt.

So, as compiled from Country Living, here&rsquo;s a catalog of the best crafty Christmas present ideas for everyone on your list.

Shortbread Cookies



Be it fruit and nut, lemon, or chocolate, we recommend making them all! Everyone loves some carbs on Christmas and if you&rsquo;re not consuming any, you&rsquo;re not doing it right. So while baking that perfect Christmas cake, add a little more effort and slice-and-bake some short bread cookies for your neighbours, friends and loved ones. Find the recipe on&nbsp;Country Living.

Hot Chocolate Stirrers



Here&rsquo;s another sweet treat that&#39;s perfect for celebrating the holidays on cold, nippy nights. To make: Dip ends of candy canes in melted semisweet chocolate. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes; place on a parchment paper&ndash;lined plate, and chill. Lightly mist large marshmallows with water and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

Millionaire Shortbread Bars



Anyone with good taste will feel like a million bucks consuming these rich and delicious 3-layer bars on Christmas. Find the recipe on&nbsp;Country Living.

Candy Cane Sleighs



Everyone loves candy and when it comes delivered in a custom made candy cane sleigh it&#39;s even more special. To make: Wrap small white jewelry boxes in thin holiday ribbon, holding it in place with double-sided tape. Attach two candy canes to the bottom of each box with hot-glue. Attach candy cane sticks (if desired) to the back of the box and just add some candy on the top.

Pine-Scented Candles



Who doesn&rsquo;t love scented candles? And when they smell positively delightful (read, pine), they just add so much more aroma. Not to mention, that mint and white design will look lovely in your recipient&#39;s home all the way until springtime. Find the tutorial on&nbsp;Sugar and Charm.

Agate Coasters



Make coasters that look like the sky and feel like love. What&rsquo;s more? They&#39;re made of polymer clay and a bit of acrylic paint, making them a beautiful and inexpensive DIY gift. Get tutorial at The House of Wood.

Bubble Bath Gift Box



And then comes our favourite; a good night of pampering wrapped up in a box. Here&rsquo;s something you can give your best friend so she can unwind with bath salts, ros&eacute;, a bar of chocolate, and more. Get the tutorial at Sugar and Charm.

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Collage1608723602-0/Collage1608723602-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>To fight new Covid strain, UK PM Johnson reverses Christmas plans for millions</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2276682/to-fight-new-covid-strain-uk-pm-johnson-reverses-christmas-plans-for-millions</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2276682/to-fight-new-covid-strain-uk-pm-johnson-reverses-christmas-plans-for-millions#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 20 Dec 20 07:12:18 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2276682</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Imposes lockdown on over 16 million people amid a new virus strain up to 70% more transmissible than the original]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Prime Minister Boris Johnson imposed an effective lockdown on over 16 million people in England and reversed plans to ease curbs over Christmas, saying Britain was dealing with a new coronavirus strain up to 70% more transmissible than the original.

Although Johnson and his scientific advisors believe vaccines will still be effective, and the new strain is not more deadly or more serious in terms of the illness caused, he said on Saturday the government had to take urgent action.

The number of cases in England has soared in the last two weeks because of the virus variant.

Johnson tore up plans to allow three households to mix indoors for five days over the festive period, and said London and southeast England, which are currently in the highest level of a three-tier system of rules, would now be placed in a new Tier 4 level, similar to those of a recent national lockdown.

&ldquo;It is with a very heavy heart I must tell you we cannot continue with Christmas as planned,&rdquo; Johnson told a news conference. &ldquo;I sincerely believe there is no alternative open to me.&rdquo;

People in Tier 4 - 16.4 million and about a third of the population of England - will be required to stay at home except for essential reasons such as work, and non-essential retail will close, as will indoor leisure and entertainment.

Social mixing will be limited to meeting one other person in an outdoor space. The new rules will come into effect from midnight on Saturday.

Johnson, whose initial response to the pandemic has been criticised for being too slow, had resisted calls to change plans for the Christmas relaxation, saying on Wednesday it would be &ldquo;frankly inhuman&rdquo; to ban it.

However, those now in Tier 4 will not be allowed to mix with others over Christmas. And everyone else in England will now be allowed to see friends and family only on Christmas Day itself, Dec&nbsp;25.

&lsquo;CONFUSION&rsquo;

&ldquo;At this time of national crisis, the British people want clear, decisive leadership,&rdquo; opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer said on Twitter. &ldquo;All we get from Boris Johnson is confusion and indecision.&rdquo;

Within minutes of Johnson&rsquo;s announcement, shoppers hit the streets for a final attempt to stock up on Christmas presents and supplies.

&ldquo;It was fairly quiet all day, then suddenly there was this mass of people,&rdquo; said one sales assistant at a large department store at Westfield shopping centre in West London, one of Europe&rsquo;s largest.

The UK&rsquo;s other nations, whose response to the pandemic differs from that of England at times, also took action.

Scotland said on Saturday it would impose a ban on travel to the rest of the United Kingdom, and the Christmas easing would be limited to Dec. 25 only. All of Wales will go into Tier 4 from midnight, but two households can mix on Christmas Day.

Business leaders said the government needed to provide emergency financial support.

&ldquo;The consequences of this decision will be severe,&rdquo; said Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium.

&lsquo;TAKEN OFF&rsquo;

Like other countries in Europe, Britain is battling to contain new waves of the virus. It reported 27,052 new Covid-19 cases on Saturday, taking the total over 2 million, and 534 more deaths, taking the overall official toll to more than 67,000.

There has been a surge in infections sparked by the new virus strain - VUI202012/01.

&ldquo;This virus has taken off, it&rsquo;s moving fast and it&rsquo;s leading inevitably to a sharp increase in hospital admissions,&rdquo; Britain&rsquo;s Chief Scientific Officer Patrick Vallance said.

England&rsquo;s Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty said the authorities had alerted the World Health Organisation and were continuing to analyse the data.

&ldquo;There&rsquo;s no evidence to suggest it is more lethal or causes more severe illness,&rdquo; Johnson said. &ldquo;There&rsquo;s no evidence to suggest the vaccine will be any less effective against the new variant.

Other countries have also reported variants of the virus. South Africa said on Friday one such strain was driving a second wave of infections there.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/To-fight-new-COVID-strain,-UK-PM-Johnson-reverses-1608447979-0/To-fight-new-COVID-strain,-UK-PM-Johnson-reverses-1608447979-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Italy braces for Christmas lockdown as Europe battles virus surge</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2276624/italy-braces-for-christmas-lockdown-as-europe-battles-virus-surge</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2276624/italy-braces-for-christmas-lockdown-as-europe-battles-virus-surge#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 19 Dec 20 18:13:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[AFP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2276624</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Europe is once again seeing growing cases with officials fearing an explosion in infections Christmas holidays]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Millions of Italians braced for Christmas and New Year under tough new coronavirus restrictions announced Saturday as Europe battled a winter surge in infections and Switzerland became the latest country to approve a virus vaccine.

Europe has become the first region in the world to pass 500,000 deaths from Covid-19 since the pandemic broke out a year ago, killing more than 1.6 million worldwide and pitching the global economy into turmoil.

Among those testing positive this week for coronavirus was French President Emmanuel Macron, but his office said on Saturday his condition was stable and his examinations were giving reassuring results.

Italy became the latest country to announce a new regime of restrictions until January 6 that included limits on people leaving their homes more than once a day, closing non-essential shops, bars and restaurants and curbs on regional travel.

&quot;It&#39;s right that they prohibit departures after 20 December if it means travelling in safety,&quot; Claudia Patrone, a 33-year-old lawyer, told AFP as she got off a train in Milan.

&quot;I took the test before leaving, I stayed locked in my house, I didn&#39;t see anyone. The measure is right if everyone respects the rules and guarantees safety.&quot;

Europe -- the epicentre of the pandemic earlier this year -- is once again seeing growing cases with officials fearing an explosion in infections after the Christmas holidays as families gather.

England&#39;s chief medical officer Chris Whitty confirmed Saturday that a new coronavirus strain which surfaced in the country could spread faster and called for greater public vigilance to reduce transmission.

A year after the pandemic first emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan, the rapid rollout of vaccinations is now seen as the only effective way to end the pandemic and the economically devastating lockdowns used to halt its spread.

Europe is expected to start a massive vaccination campaign after Christmas following the United States and Britain which have begun giving jabs with an approved Pfizer-BioNTech shot, one of several leading candidates.

Russia and China have also started giving out jabs with their own domestically produced vaccines.

Swiss regulators on Saturday give the green light to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine -- the 16th country to do so and the first in continental Europe -- with immunisation set to start within days.

&quot;Those who are particularly vulnerable will have priority,&quot; Health Minister Alain Berset said in a video tweet, namely the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.

Worst-hit nation&nbsp;

The United States on Friday authorised Moderna&#39;s Covid-19 vaccine for emergency use, paving the way for millions of doses of a second jab to be shipped across the hardest-hit country in the world.

The United States is the first nation to authorise the two-dose regimen from Moderna, now the second vaccine to be deployed in a Western country after the one developed by Pfizer and BioNTech.

Millions of doses will start shipping out as early as this weekend from cold-storage sites outside Memphis and Louisville.

With the United States now registering more than 2,500 deaths a day from Covid-19, senior US officials including Vice President Mike Pence stepped up to receive early vaccinations on Friday.

Pence&#39;s public inoculation was the most high-profile attempt yet at persuading vaccine-skeptic Americans to join a national effort to halt a pandemic that has infected more than 74 million worldwide.

President-elect Joe Biden, who will take office on January 20, announced he would take the vaccine, also in public, on Monday.

In Europe, Slovakian Prime Minister Igor Matovic became the latest high-profile figure to test positive for Covid-19 a week after attending a European Union summit in Brussels.

The summit is believed to be where Macron also caught the virus. Macron&#39;s diagnosis on Thursday led to a host of European leaders and French officials rushing into self-isolation.

Macron, who is working in self-isolation from an official residence outside Paris, &quot;is still presenting the same symptoms of the Covid-19 illness (fatigue, coughing, stiffness)&quot;, said a brief statement on Saturday, signed by his doctor.

But they were not preventing him from carrying out his duties and he was in stable condition.

&quot;We have to be vigilant as the virus is gaining in strength again,&quot; the French leader said on Friday in a short video message.

In Australia, a cluster of cases on Sydney&#39;s northern beaches grew to 38, with residents ordered to stay home from late Saturday other than for essential reasons.

New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian pleaded with Sydney&#39;s more than five million residents to remain in their homes.

&quot;We&#39;re hoping that will give us sufficient time to get on top of the virus so that we can then ease up for Christmas and the New Year,&quot; she said.

In India the total number of cases moved past 10 million on Saturday, the second highest in the world, although new infection rates appear to have fallen sharply in recent weeks.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Italy-christmas-AFP1608401536-0/Italy-christmas-AFP1608401536-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Church security sought for Christmas</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2275979/church-security-sought-for-christmas</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2275979/church-security-sought-for-christmas#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 14 Dec 20 19:42:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2275979</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Karachi commissioner directs K-E to ensure interrupted power supply to churches]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Karachi Commissioner Navid Ahmed Shaikh has ordered the relevant authorities to ensure fool-proof security arrangements at churches for Christmas celebrations.

Chairing a meeting with the relevant authorities and representatives of the Christian community on Monday, the new commissioner also instructed officials to carry out special cleaning campaigns and the provision of other civic facilities ahead of the annual festival. He also directed the K-Electric to ensure uninterrupted power supply to the churches and other important locations, so the Christian community could celebrate Christmas without hassle. 

Shaikh further asked deputy commissioners (DCs) to stay in touch with community representatives with regard to the provision of facilities and other arrangements, also telling them to set up complaint centres.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 15th, 2020.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1000161-church-1448716410/1000161-church-1448716410.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Merkel to discuss tighter lockdown with German states on Sunday - sources</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2275684/merkel-to-discuss-tighter-lockdown-with-german-states-on-sunday-sources</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2275684/merkel-to-discuss-tighter-lockdown-with-german-states-on-sunday-sources#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 12 Dec 20 11:21:50 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2275684</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Including whether shops should be closed before the Christmas holiday and the timing of such a move]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[German Chancellor Angela Merkel is scheduled to discuss on Sunday a tightening of lockdown restrictions with state leaders as coronavirus infections rise and amid growing calls for action, sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Germany has been in partial lockdown for six weeks, with bars and restaurants closed but shops and schools open. Some regions have already imposed tougher measures.

The discussions on Sunday will include whether shops should be closed before the Christmas holiday and the timing of such a move, said the people, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Economy Minister Peter Altmaier told the RND newspaper group on Saturday that hospital intensive care units were beginning to be stretched to their limits and that Germany couldn&rsquo;t wait until after Christmas to react.

&ldquo;We have to clarify how things will continue now,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Otherwise the pandemic will get completely out of control.&rdquo;

Germany, which has Europe&rsquo;s largest economy, was more successful than many European countries in keeping the pandemic under control in the first wave in March and April, but it has been struggling to turn the tide in the second wave with what has been dubbed a &ldquo;lockdown lite&rdquo;.

Daily new coronavirus infections have climbed to 28,438, while the daily death toll was 496, data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases showed on Saturday.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Merkel-to-discuss-tighter-lockdown-with-German-sta1607772025-0/Merkel-to-discuss-tighter-lockdown-with-German-sta1607772025-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Pope cancels traditional pre-Christmas ceremony due to Covid-19</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2274137/pope-cancels-traditional-pre-christmas-ceremony-due-to-covid-19</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2274137/pope-cancels-traditional-pre-christmas-ceremony-due-to-covid-19#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 30 Nov 20 15:50:42 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2274137</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Vatican says Francis would skip the ceremony in order to avoid any risk of contagion caused by gatherings of people]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pope Francis has cancelled a ceremony that traditionally begins Rome&rsquo;s Christmas season on Dec. 8 at the Spanish Steps because of coronavirus restrictions, the Vatican said on Monday.

The pope customarily places a wreath of flowers at the base of a 12-metre column bearing a statue of the Madonna and blesses from a distance another wreath already placed around the statue&rsquo;s arm by firefighters using a ladder.

The Vatican said Francis would skip the ceremony, which popes have been carrying out on the feast of the Immaculate Conception since 1953, &ldquo;in order to avoid any risk of contagion caused by gatherings of people&rdquo;.

Thousands of people usually line the streets near the area to see the pope and pray with him.

The Vatican said the pope would instead hold a private service to entrust the city, its people and the sick around the world to the Madonna.

It has already announced that access to all of the pope&rsquo;s traditional Christmas activities, including his &ldquo;Urbi et Orbi&rdquo; (&ldquo;To the city and the world&rdquo;) blessing and message, will be restricted because of the Covid-19 crisis.

Only a limited number of people will be allowed into St. Peter&rsquo;s Basilica for papal Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Masses, which will be broadcast on television and streamed on the internet.

Last month, the pope&rsquo;s weekly general audiences were moved back indoors with public participation after a period when a limited number of people were allowed to take part.

Recently, more than a dozen Swiss Guards and one person who lives in the residence that houses the pope tested positive for the coronavirus and had to be quarantined.

The first Western country hit by the virus, Italy has recorded 54,904 Covid-19 deaths since its outbreak emerged in February, the second-highest toll in Europe after Britain. It has also registered 1.585 million cases to date.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Pope-francis-vatican-christmas-reuters1606751238-0/Pope-francis-vatican-christmas-reuters1606751238-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Mariah Carey is the first to top Billboard Hot 100 in four different decades</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2128854/mariah-carey-first-top-billboard-hot-100-four-different-decades</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2128854/mariah-carey-first-top-billboard-hot-100-four-different-decades#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jan 20 04:59:14 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[afp]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category><category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2128854</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The holiday tune was first released in 1994, and re-released with a new video this holiday season]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pop diva Mariah Carey has had a long list of hits over the years, but her classic holiday song has helped her make history as the first artist to top the Billboard charts in four separate decades.

All I Want For Christmas Is You is number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for the week dated January 4, 2020, based on sales, radio airplay and streaming data - its third week atop the rankings.

That means Carey has had a number one single in the 1990s, 2000s, 2010s and 2020s.

The singer - who will not confirm whether her age is 49 or 50 because she says "time is not something I acknowledge" - was low-key about her history-making achievement.

https://twitter.com/MariahCarey/status/1211745001790676992

"Yaaaaaaaaay!!! WE. DID. IT. But.... what's a decade?" Carey wrote on Twitter, with a stream of champagne and party emojis.

The bubbly, ubiquitous holiday tune was first released in 1994 and gained new fame after its inclusion on the soundtrack for the 2003 film Love, Actually.

https://twitter.com/MariahCarey/status/1208130340755259393

But it only topped the charts for the first time in late 2019, thanks to a change in Billboard's rules as to what can be included on the top songs list.

Carey dropped a new video for it - which counts towards Hot 100 placement - and released the song as a stand-alone CD single for the first time.

It is her 19th number one hit, according to Billboard, putting her just one song behind The Beatles' overall record of 20 top songs.

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2128854-mariah-1577940746/2128854-mariah-1577940746.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>FIR lodged against Bollywood celebrities for hurting Christian sentiments</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2125845/fir-lodged-bollywood-celebrities-hurting-christian-sentiments</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2125845/fir-lodged-bollywood-celebrities-hurting-christian-sentiments#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 27 Dec 19 09:37:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Entertainment Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category><category><![CDATA[TV]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2125845</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Christmas in India witnessed protests against the mockery of a Biblical term]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[In a recent turn of events, Amritsar police booked Bollywood actress Raveena Tandon, director-choreographer Farah Khan and comedian Bharti Singh for allegedly hurting the religious sentiments of the Christian community in a television show.

Police sources claimed that the three actors allegedly said something questionable during Farah Khan's YouTube comedy show Backbenchers, which did not go down well with some members of the Christian community in the state. The community protested on Christmas in Anjala near Amritsar after which a case was registered by the police, reported The New Indian Express.

The case was registered on Wednesday on the basis of a complaint filed by the president of the Christian Samaj Front, Sonu Jafar and the general secretary of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC).

The complaint included a video in which he alleged that when the entire world was celebrating Christmas, these three Bollywood celebrities made a mockery of the pious word 'Hallelujah' (word of praise to God).

After the three were accused and booked, Tandon provided a clarification on her Twitter.

https://twitter.com/TandonRaveena/status/1210176333566885892

She offered an apology but added that, “Please do watch this link. I haven’t said a word that can be interpreted as an insult to any religion. The three of us (Farah Khan, Bharti Singh and I) never intended to offend anyone, but in case we did, my most sincere apologies to those who were hurt.”.

The actor attached the video clip from the said episode of Khan’s show Back Benchers. The video clip showed Khan acting as the teacher as she asked Tandon and Singh to spell the word ‘hallelujah’.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8s0CmtltPs

However, the video has been removed from the link she provided, while only short clippings of the episode are available on Youtube. While Khan and Singh are yet to comment on the matter.

Jafar had received the video from Dhariwal Sonu Stephan, in which they (Tandon, Khan and Singh) were allegedly seen “making fun” of the word from the Bible. "This has hurt the sentiments of the Christian community and we sought stringent action against them," said Jafar.

The complainant also alleged that "the religious sentiments of Christians have been hurt.".

An FIR was registered at the Ajnala police station under section 295-A of the IPC (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or reli­gious beliefs).

According to The Indian Express, Amritsar Rural SSP, Vikram Jeet Duggal said, "We have registered a case against the three and further investigations are being held."

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2125845-raveenatandon-1577439320/2125845-raveenatandon-1577439320.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Rihanna is no longer a part of my life: Drake</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2125871/utmost-love-respect-drake-talks-rihanna</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2125871/utmost-love-respect-drake-talks-rihanna#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 27 Dec 19 09:11:00 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Entertainment Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category><category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2125871</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The rapper who wanted to be her lamp sometime ago seems to be finally moving on]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Drake is no stranger to romantic trysts and beef (feuds) in the rap world with his counterparts, and it seems like he’s ready to address some of them.

In an interview on the Rap Radar podcast that was released on Christmas day via Tidal, the rapper talked about a lot of personal topics, including his choppy past with his former flame Rihanna and her former flame Chris Brown.



Drake and Chris, both of whom have been involved with singer Rihanna in the past, came together for collaboration on No Guidance this year, after a long history of cold war between the two. Talking about working with Chris, Drake expressed how it felt as if they were “forcing it” and harbored “resentment” for each other.

The God’s Plan hit-maker went to explain the situation saying, “You know, really at the end of the day, when you kind of step away from it and break it down, you start to feel silly because it's over girl stuff. But obviously that could snowball into real s--t and that's what happened in this situation."

Drake was famously linked to Rihanna after the singer fell victim to assault by Brown and was left battered. The two enjoyed a long on-off courtship that resulted in a number of hit collaborations including What’s My Name, Take Care, Work and Too Good.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0CGsw6h60k&amp;feature=emb_title

When Brown and Drake announced No Guidance this summer, many were left confused by Drake’s decision to rub shoulders with Brown once again and it turns out that Drake was just as hesitant.

"That person (Rihanna) that was in the middle of us is no longer a part of either of our lives currently and I have the most utmost love and respect for her. I think of her as family more than anything. I felt, I actually had kind of a moment of hesitation before because I didn't want her to ever feel disrespected by me linking up with him,” he said.

Watch the entire interview here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmsasEoupO4

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2125871-drakeandrihannamtvvmasbackstagebillboard-1577437220/2125871-drakeandrihannamtvvmasbackstagebillboard-1577437220.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Donald Trump cameo removed from 'Home Alone 2'</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2125856/donald-trump-cameo-removed-home-alone-2</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2125856/donald-trump-cameo-removed-home-alone-2#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 27 Dec 19 08:34:18 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Entertainment Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category><category><![CDATA[Film]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2125856</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The President has joked about the film never being the same again]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Donald Trump has responded to his cameo being cut out by Canada's national broadcaster in Home Alone 2 . “The movie will never be the same! (just kidding),” President Trump tweeted immediately after public outcry from his supporters.

https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1210351400313638914

He also took a shot at Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. "I guess Justin Trudeau doesn’t much like my making him pay up on NATO or Trade!" Trump tweeted.

https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1210350571452022784

According to an article published on People Magazine, the film was aired without his cameo earlier this month by Canadian Broadcasting Company (CBC) . However it was more recently pointed out by right wing publications. His son Donald Jr. had also proceeded to call out for being biased, deeming the move as "Absolutely pathetic".

“Imagine being so pathetic in your quest to attain some bull s*** level of wokeness that you need to cut out a scene that is probably one of the the most famous cameos of the era? Imagine being so ‘triggered’ that you can’t even leave a Christmas movie alone without editing,” he tweeted.

Meanwhile CBC in a statement to People Magazine has maintained that the cut was made in 2014, two years before Trump's election win. According to CBC the decision to omit the cameo did not stemmed out of political difference. Instead it was done to save time and make it compatible for TV. Furthermore CBC has claimed that this wasn't the only scene that was cutout from the film.

At the time the film came out, Trump was a prominent media personality. In the film Trump shows up when Macaulay Culkin’s character, Kevin finds himself lost in New York's Plaza Hotel. Trump is seen telling him the way to the hotel lobby.

Have something to add? Share in the comments below

&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2125856-bbbbbbbbbb-1577435605/2125856-bbbbbbbbbb-1577435605.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Death toll reaches 28 as Philippines recovers from Christmas typhoon</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2125792/death-toll-reaches-28-philippines-recovers-christmas-typhoon</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2125792/death-toll-reaches-28-philippines-recovers-christmas-typhoon#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 27 Dec 19 05:40:10 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2125792</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[12 people still missing, 49 homes destroyed]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The death toll from a Christmas typhoon that tore through the central Philippines rose to 28 on Friday, with 12 people missing, the disaster agency said, as authorities moved to restore power and residents tried to repair damaged homes.

Typhoon Phanfone hit late on Tuesday with winds of up to 120 kph (75 mph) and gusts of 150 kph, dumping sheets of uninterrupted rain on a string of islands, damaging hundreds of homes and causing flooding in eight areas.

It was the seventh typhoon to strike the Philippines this year and came as millions of people in the predominantly Catholic country were heading home to celebrate Christmas with families.

Some 43,000 people were in temporary shelters on Friday, among the 185,000 impacted by the typhoon, which destroyed 49 homes and partially damaged 2,000.

Japan rescuers seek survivors after Typhoon Hagibis kills 43

There was widespread travel disruption with 115 flights canceled and thousands of people stranded by the suspension of ferries due to storm surges.

It was unclear how the deaths occurred, but officials said some were hit by trees, electrocuted or drowned.

“People did not expect that the storm would be that devastating,” said disaster agency spokesperson Mark Timbal.

Though less powerful than other typhoons this year, Phanphone made landfall in some of the country’s poorest and least-developed islands.

Among them was the island of Samar, which bore the brunt of Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, the Philippines’ most powerful and deadliest storm on record. It killed more than 6,300 people.

Residents, there were clearing debris, with wooden pillars and sheets of corrugated iron roof that were once homes, scattered across the ground. Men pulled tried to recover fishing boats with tangled or damaged outriggers.

Samar resident Virgilo Catayas, whose sibling was among those killed by Haiyan, said he lost another to hypertension when Phanphone hit.

“We can’t really do much if that’s what happened, we’ll have to accept it,” he told broadcaster ABS-CBN. “The important thing is to stay strong,” he said, sitting next to a casket.

Typhoon Phanfone kills at least 16 in Philippines

Television showed minor damage to the airport at Kalibo, an alternative gateway to the holiday island of Boracay, while the disaster agency said 55 schools had suffered some damage.

The agriculture department estimated initial damages of 569 million pesos ($11.17 million) mostly to fish farms.

Images on social media showed government workers clearing trees from roads, with a clear blue sky after the storm moved out over the South China Sea late on Wednesday.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2125792-philipines-1577425161/2125792-philipines-1577425161.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>'Friends' theme songwriter dies on Christmas Eve</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2125465/friends-theme-songwriter-dies-christmas-eve</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2125465/friends-theme-songwriter-dies-christmas-eve#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 26 Dec 19 12:09:10 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Entertainment Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Life &amp; Style]]></category><category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2125465</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Allee Willis has passed away at the age of 72]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[American songwriter and music director Allee Willis died after going into cardiac arrest the Songwriters Hall of Fame announced on Wednesday. Willis was most renowned for writing the theme song for the 90s sitcom Friends.

The song was called I’ll be there for you and was  performed by The Rembrandts.  Willis got an Emmy nomination for the song however she was not able to win, losing to the theme of Star Trek: the Voyager.

Willis also worked on the Beverly Hills Cop original soundtrack for which she won a Grammy for best soundtrack album background score from a motion picture or television in 1986.

She had also collaborated frequently with 70s soul and funk band Earth, Wind &amp; Fire, writing Boogie Wonderland  and September. Earth, Wind &amp; Fire paid tribute to the late songwriter in a Twitter post.

https://twitter.com/EarthWindFire/status/1209932646215630848

"Allee Willis was a one-of-a-kind creative genius. Her love, spirit and artistry are forever woven into the fabric and legacy of Earth, Wind &amp; Fire. She will be sorely missed. Rest in Love" the post read.

Willis was a prolific songwriter who had worked on a plethora of projects. She was the first woman and the fifth person across the glove to have written for two Broadway shows opening in the same season.

Willis was 72 at the time of  her death. The cause is yet to be determined. The artist is survived by her brother  Kent Willis,sister, Marlin Frost, and niece, Mandy Becker.

Have something to add to the story? Share in the comments below

&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2125465-alleewillis-1577362078/2125465-alleewillis-1577362078.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item>	</channel>
                </rss>
