The religious festivity was started with special prayer for peace and solidarity, and integrity of the country. The pastor and pop also sermons highlighted the significance of the Christmas, said that day conveyed a message of peace and harmony. A large number from Christian community attended the gathering and cut cakes to celebrate their religious festivity. Special prayers were offered for peace, solidarity and unity of the country.
Addressing various gathering, Christian religious leaders highlighted the services of Hazrat Essa (AS) for the entire humanity. They said that the day teaches us peace and brotherhood with each other. They said that all religions of the world should live together with peace to serve humanity beyond any religious rivalries.
They expressed deep concern over the poor law-and-order situation of the country and hold special Fateha for everlasting peace in Pakistan. On this occasion they also expressed their sympathies with terrorism-hit masses of the country and prayed for the eternal peace of the martyred persons. Earlier, a representative of the Assemblies of God Church, Yunathan Younas, paid a glowing tribute to slain ANP Senior Minister Bashir Bilour. He said that entire nation is in a great grief and sorrow over the loss of Bashir Bilour. The Christian community has decided not to celebrate Christmas on a high note this year in Peshawar, aimed to show an expression of sympathies with those who have lost their loved ones in the brutal attack of terrorism.
He said that Christians would observe as religious festivity but the social vehemence displayed at this festive time of the year will be lacking. He further said that a Christmas festival held every year at Kohati has also been cancelled. Christmas services would be held in all the Churches of the city. Prayers will be offered for the comfort of the Bilour family, and peace in the country.
Meanwhile tough security arrangements have been made around various churches in Peshawar to foil any untoward incident on the eve of Christmas. Heavy contingent of police has been deployed in different parts of the city. Police have been directed for stringent security arrangement as terrorist may cash such important occasions.