Pakistani celebrities wish the Christian community Merry Christmas

The Christian community across Pakistan celebrated Christmas on Friday albeit in a slightly different fashion due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. With the second wave of Covid-19 in full swing, festivities compared to last year were held in a more simplistic way, yet spirits remained high all across.

Christmas eve saw people thronging shopping malls in order to buy new clothes and gifts for their relatives. Houses were also decorated with the same zeal with events related to the occasion organised at various locations.

In Lahore, Christmas celebrations were held in 97 churches. These included Catholic, Protestant and other missionary churches. In the provincial capital, the biggest ceremony for the Catholic school of thought is being held at Sacred Heart Cathedral on Lawrence Road. Meanwhile, the largest event for Protestants is organised at the Cathedral Church on Mall Road.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Imran Khan has wished the Christian community in Pakistan a happy Christmas.

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

Several other public figures from all across the country also took to their social media to send the best of wishes to those celebrating.

Veteran actor Adnan Siddiqui went on to described Christmas to be the "season to be jolly". "It’s the season to be jolly and spend time with your loved ones. To all my Christian brothers and sisters may this Christmas bring you cheer, joy and lot of blessings. MerryXmas and stay safe," he said.

Writer and activist Fatima Bhutto talked about how the day should be spend in "brotherhood". "A very Happy Christmas to all those celebrating in this difficult year. May the day be spend in brotherhood and friendship with loved ones near and far," Bhutto said.

TV host Fakhr e Alam joked about catching a glimpse of Santa Clause on the day. Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas around the world....keep looking at the sky you might catch a glimpse of Santa.....peace, love and happiness to all..... Merry Christmas," Alam said.

Armeena Khan posted a picture of her alongside a Christmas tree as she sent her wishes. "Happy Christmas to everyone celebrating everywhere especially to the Pakistani Christian Community," Khan said.

Actors Shafaat Ali and Bilal Ashraf also wished a happy Christmas to those celebrating. "Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas," said Ashraf. "Merry Christmas to all those who celebrate !!" said Ali.

Others included TV host Shaista Lodhi and PR personality Frieha Altaf. "Merry Christmas to all celebrating it today. Spread Happiness," said Lodhi. "This Christmas give the Gift of Health!" said Altaf.

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