RAWALPINDI: Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF, attended the Christmas celebrations at Christ Church in Rawalpindi, joining the Christian community in commemorating the joyous occasion. He extended heartfelt Christmas greetings and best wishes for peace, harmony and prosperity to the community.
Paying tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Field Marshal highlighted the Founder’s vision of equality, freedom and religious tolerance, emphasising the protection of minority rights as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s ideology.
Interacting with the congregation, Field Marshal highlighted the enduring contributions of Pakistani Christians to national development and security, including their proud and distinguished service in the Pakistan Armed Forces across generations. He also stressed the importance of interfaith harmony, mutual respect and unity, stating that Pakistan’s strength lies in its diversity, equal opportunities and shared constitutional values beyond religion, ethnicity, caste and creed.
The COAS & CDF reaffirmed Pakistan Armed Forces’ commitment to upholding the dignity, security and equal rights of all citizens, as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan. The Christian community leaders expressed gratitude for the Field Marshal’s visit, acknowledging Pakistan Armed Forces’ role in the protection of the homeland, inclusivity, religious harmony, and national unity in Pakistan.
The Christian community in Pakistan is celebrating Christmas with religious zeal and festivity alongside global observances on Thursday.
Like the rest of the world, the Christian community in Pakistan is enthusiastically celebrating Christmas today. Special prayers are being offered for the country during the Christmas prayer ceremonies, and all the churches across the nation are beautifully decorated with electric lights.
Churches have seen an increase in the purchase of Christmas cakes and sweets, and security measures have been heightened around these places of worship, with continuous police patrols in place. Christmas celebrations are also taking place abroad; in New Zealand and Australia, special ceremonies are being held, while citizens in Finland have arrived at Santa Claus Village to distribute gifts to children. Shopping malls in the United Arab Emirates are also adorned with Christmas decorations.
On this occasion, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif shared messages emphasising that Christmas brings a message of hope, peace, and compassion. The President noted that the Christian community has made significant contributions in various fields. The Prime Minister expressed his hope that Christmas would bring peace, stability, and prosperity to the country, highlighting that the efforts of the Christian community contribute to national development. Both leaders affirmed that the Constitution guarantees equal rights and religious freedom for every citizen.
