Christian community in Pakistan is celebrating Christmas marking the birth anniversary of Jesus Christ with religious fervour on Sunday (today).

Special services are being held in Churches across the country. Special prayers will be made for the country's progress and prosperity. Elaborate security arrangements have also been made around churches.

Christmas trees have been decorated with lights and colourful balls in Christian colonies, outside shopping malls, hotels etc. The followers of Christianity believe that the day brings happiness and blessings for them. The traditions associated with the festival primarily include Christmas trees, Santa Claus and Christmas gifts. Santa Claus attracts people with his bright red and snowy white costumes. The jolly white-bearded man serves the people with gifts, best wishes and sweets.

Christmas is one of the biggest celebrations for the people belonging to the Christian faith. The sale of garments, shoes and gifts has increased in the business centres of the country. Special stalls have been arranged in the famous Anarkali bazaar of Lahore and customers can be seen thronging the markets, buying different decors, clothes and ingredients to make special dishes and confectioneries.

Provincial Minister for Minorities and Human Rights Khalil Tahir Sandhu has extended warmest wishes for a peaceful, as well as a happy Christmas to the whole Christian community. In his message, Sandhu said "Christmas demands us to help and join the vulnerable and poor families in its celebrations promoting the brotherhood, religious harmony, compassion and tolerance."