Christians celebrate Good Friday

RAWALPINDI:

The Christian community in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad observed Good Friday with profound religious fervour and devotion, as churches witnessed large congregations of families offering prayers and presenting hymns.

Easter observances will continue with "Chand Raat" on Saturday, followed by Easter Sunday celebrations across Pakistan, while the government has also announced a public holiday on Monday to mark the occasion.

Stringent security arrangements were enforced at all churches in the twin cities, with the deployment of surveillance cameras, commandos, and female police personnel to ensure safety during the festivities.

Shopping activity for Easter has reached its peak, with commercial centres and bazaars remaining open until late night hours, particularly Moti Bazaar, a key shopping destination for women.

Special arrangements were also made at Adiala Jail to facilitate Easter prayers for Christian inmates.

Religious leaders, including Pastor Asif, Pastor Qaiser Masih, and community figure Rashid Chauhan, extended Easter greetings and noted that special prayers were offered on Good Friday for Pakistan's peace, prosperity, and stability.