AMJAD ALI SHAH

PESHAWAR: Likewise other parts of the country and rest of the world, the Christian community in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and tribal areas celebrated Christmas on Wednesday.

In Peshawar, special services held at different churches in the city for which foolproof security arrangements were made by the police and relevant department. Prayers for integrity, solidarity, progress and prosperity of the country were also offered by the people of minority community.

All churches and cathedrals as well as All Saints Church in the Kohati area were decorated and illuminated since last two days and religious services continued till late night. Churches, homes, trees and markets were decorated with lights while children were visiting parks, playgrounds, churches and their religious places.

Zeeshan Maeshi and Jamshid Michael while talking to this scribe said Christmas event spread message of brotherhood, peace and prosperity among all nations.

Ayisa, who also belonged to Christian community, said, “We follow Jesus Christ philosophy of love, peace and brotherhood for maintenance of peace in the society.”

The venues of the ceremonies were beautifully decorated with colorful buntings and banners while special gifts were distributed among the children and the social. Hundreds of families visited churches for the morning service on Wednesday after which they exchanged greetings and headed home.

The celebrations began with the special midnight services at Christmas eve while the Christmas day services started on Wednesday morning led by the bishops and the hierarchy of the Christian clergy at their respective churches.

The district administration has banned pillion riding and display of weapons to avoid any untoward incident during the Christmas festival.

Meanwhile, the provincial government has taken numerous steps to facilitate the Christians. KP Minister for Local Government Shahram Khan Tarakai on Wednesday shared Christmas greetings with Christian community.

In a message issued here, Shahram said that role of minorities in development of the country could not be undermined; adding minority and majority communities should collectively work for the progress and prosperity of the motherland.