Federal Minister for Minorities Affairs Arranged an Interfaith Christmas Celebration.
On 18th of December, 2009, Mr. Shahbaz Bhatti, Federal Minister for Minorities Affairs arrangedan Interfaith Christmas Celebration at Hotel Serena in Islamabad. Mr. Yusuf Raza Gilani, the Prime Minister of Pakistan was the Chief Guest. Over 1000 Muslim, Christian, Hindu and Sikh guests were present. The guests included federal ministers, diplomats, senators, members of the national and provincial assemblies and religious leaders. Fr. James Channan OP was honored to sit on the stage with the Prime Minister and was invited to cut the Christmas cake as well. There were over 30 TV channels who gave this Christmas program Live. Almost all newspapers carried photos of the cutting of Christmas cake. I am pasting this photo to share with you. Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, URI Global Trustee was also on the stage as Guest of Honor and cut the cake as well.

On this occasion the Prime Minister Gilani said, “ To follow the path of virtual living and love, shown by Jesus Christ is the need of the hour, especially when the scourge of terrorism has become more lethal in recent years. We must understand that war against terrorism cannot be won only through military action. It is imperative to address the root causes of terrorism.” He pointed out that “Love is the eternal weapon to curb hatred and violence.” He also announced property right to all Christians who live in Kachi Abadies (living in houses/colonies without ownership rights). Gilani says Christians should be called ‘Masihi’ in future He also felicitated to the Christian community, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.