Children perform a tableau at a church in Islamabad as part of Christmas celebrations. PHOTO: EXPRESS
ISLAMABAD:
Amid heightened security at churches, the Christian community in the twin cities enthusiastically took part in Christmas celebrations by offering special prayers Thursday night marking one of the most celebrated days across the world.
Dressed in new outfits, the young and old equally enjoyed the night remembering the message of love and peace of Jesus Christ (AS).
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On Thursday night special services were held at Full Gospel Assembly Church, G-8/1, Saint Thomas Church, G-7, and Khatoon-e-Fatima Church in F-8, where Christian priests prayed for peace, harmony and prosperity of Pakistan.
Streets, houses and shops in several informal settlements and Christian colonies have been decorated with lights and Christmas trees, while churches, missionary schools and institutions in Islamabad are also lit up with colourful lights.
A special prayer service was held at Full Gospel Assembly Church at sector G-8/1 Tuesday night. Children sang Christmas carols and presented tableaus highlighting message of love and peace.
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“This is a special day for all of us. We pray for peace and welfare of humanity,” said Pastor In-Charge Rizwan Khurshid of Full Gospel Assembly Church at G-8/1.
It’s an occasion to revert to the message of Christ, the eternal message of love peace tolerance and compassion for humanity, commented Shahzad Anjum secretary information, FGA Church.
He said it was the time to rededicate ourselves to these noble ideals and work individually as well as collectively for the betterment and welfare of humanity and to contribute our share in making the world a better place to live.
“Jesus Christ showed the people the virtuous path. His message demands that we all turn to God and seek divine mercy,” Pastor Ubaid Sadiq in his message.
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“When we talk about harmony, equality and peace, then, the message of God is that you must love each other like you love yourselves,” Elder Samuel Masih commented.
The Christian Youth Uplift Forum database suggests that some 57,000 community members are residing in Islamabad.
The Christmas celebrations are in full swing in settlements including 100 Quarters in F-6/2, France Colony in F-7/4, Faisal Colony, 66 Quarters and Musharraf Colony in G-7, Hansa Colony, Charles Colony, J Salik Colony and Miskeen Colony in G-8, Christian Colony in H-9, Essa Nagri in I-9, and Christian Colony in Iqbal Town.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 25th, 2015.
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