KARACHI, 26 December 2004 — President Pervez Musharraf has said that there is an urgent need in the world today for removing distrust and misunderstandings among the followers of different religions and fostering greater understanding, tolerance and respect for all.
Congratulating the Christians on Christmas, he said the message of Prophet Jesus is one of love, peace and harmony. “He showed us the path of virtuous living. It is, therefore, incumbent upon us to practice the spirit of peace, love and brotherhood, which are common to all religions of the world,” President Musharraf said.
Pakistan, he added, had initiated and was actively engaged in a dialogue with world powers for the resolution of political disputes, forming the root cause of extremism, with justice and equity. “We have proposed enlightened moderation as a practical and long-term response for achieving sustainable peace and harmony in the world and a means by which the West and the Muslim Ummah can work together for the mutual benefit of humanity,” he said.
Domestically, the government of Pakistan has rejuvenated efforts to create a congenial environment in the country, where all segments of society may live in peace and tranquility, the president added.
He acknowledged patriotism and tremendous contributions by the Pakistani Christians for the progress and development of the country. The president reiterated the firm commitment of the government to uphold the rights of all minorities. “We are committed to building good relations with all minorities, duly safeguarding their rights and privileges,” he added.
More than four million Christians living in Pakistan celebrated Christmas yesterday with traditional zeal and fervor. Dozens of churches in Karachi have been decorated and small and large congregations were held at more than one thousand churches all over the city. The main congregation of the midnight service of the Roman Catholic community was organized at the St Patrick’s Cathedral in Saddar and the midnight mass was conducted by Arch Bishop Evarist Pinto while the morning masses was held by Father Joe D’Mello, rector St. Patricks Cathedral, father Anthony Martin and Father Francis.
The main congregation of the midnight mass of the Protestant Christians was organized at the Holy Trinity Cathedral near the Governor House.
