FAIZAN JAVED
LAHORE - Like other parts of the world, Christmas that marks the birth of Jesus Christ is celebrated in Pakistan, but in a simple way this year due to the Peshawar tragedy.
The annual carol singing function held under the aegis of daily The Nation and Pearl Continental Hotel in a simple manner with candle light vigil for Peshawar martyrs and in solidarity with their families.
The event brought together leaders of the Christian community, heads of Christian organisations and people from different walks of life.
Bishop of Lahore Rt Rev Irfan Jamil was the chief guest while Rev Shahid Miraj was the guest of honour.
The Nation Editor Salim Bokhari, Rev Peter Percy, Rev Qaisar Nadeem Joseph, Ijaz Miraj, Rajil Joshua and his wife, Adeel Riaz, Roy Menzies, John William and Kenneth Shams were prominent among the guests.
The event began with a prayer and a brief message by Rev Shahid Miraj about the gravity of situation and how Christians across the Pakistan were still in shock and grief after the Peshawar tragedy. All the guests stood up in respect and two minutes silence was observed for the martyrs of Peshawar.
Keeping the tradition alive, the carol singing began and continued in a very solemn way. Cathedral Church’s choir led the carol singing. Nadia Rafiq presented a special song in the memory of the martyrs.
Traditionally, Christmas cake is cut at this annual function but this year no cake cutting ceremony was held. Santa Claus was present there but didn’t dancing to celebrate Christmas. He wished very happy Christmas to all the Christians and distributed sweets among the children.
The function concluded with the address by Bishop Irfan Jamil who stressed on religious and social harmony and to unite as a nation. He also prayed for peace and prosperity of Pakistan.