Lahore: As Christmas approaches, Christian communities across Pakistan are preparing for the feast with joy and prayer while also working closely with civil authorities to ensure safety around churches and public events.
According to information shared through Church sources, special security arrangements have been introduced in several provinces after consultations between government officials, police and Christian leaders. These measures include deploying additional security personnel near churches, setting up entry checks, managing traffic, improving street lighting and ensuring cleanliness around worship areas.
Fr Qaisar Feroz, a parish priest in Lahore and communications officer of the Pakistan Bishops’ Conference, said the precautions reflect concerns in society following past attacks and regional tensions. He explained that churches are given special attention during the Christmas season, with police and Christian representatives meeting in advance to plan security based on each church building.
Authorities have assured minority communities that protecting lives, property and peace of mind is a top priority. Citizens have also been encouraged to report any suspicious activity immediately.
Despite the heightened security, the Christmas spirit remains strong. Fr Feroz said Christians are determined to share the message of Christmas with all Pakistanis, regardless of religion, as a sign of peace, friendship and coexistence.
In recent days, public Christmas events have already taken place in Lahore, including one organized by the government and another by the Catholic community. Both highlighted Christmas as a feast of peace. A procession supported by civil authorities brought together people of different faiths, sending a strong message of harmony and unity.
Christians, Fr Feroz said, see themselves as messengers of peace, especially in times marked by conflict and violence. The message of Jesus at Christmas is one of reconciliation and hope, which the community wishes to share with Muslim neighbours, government leaders and people in the wider region, including India and Afghanistan.
In Karachi, a public peace demonstration is being held on December 21 with the participation of civil and religious leaders. Similar interreligious meetings and gatherings are planned in other cities, organized by parishes, dioceses and Christian associations.
The aim of these efforts is clear: to renew a shared commitment to peace and unity, lived out in everyday social life, even in challenging times.