Christians celebrate Easter with religious zeal

ISLAMABAD: The Christian community on Sunday celebrated Easter with traditional zeal and religious fervour across the country.

The festival commemorates the day followers believe Jesus was resurrected in Jerusalem 2,000 years ago. Special services were hosted at different places where the Christian community attended prayers for salvation, and for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.

The prime minister tweeted a congratulatory message, wishing "all our Christian citizens a happy Easter." Minister for Education Shafqat Mahmood also felicitated the community, while expressing the hope that the day brought "great joy to you and your families".

Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar wished the Christians around the world a happy Easter. PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari too wished the community on the occasion. Last year's Easter celebrations were held in a subdued manner due to the coronavirus, with worshippers confined to their homes in an effort to curb the spread of the disease.

Even though there were no curbs on gatherings in most areas this year, strict SOPs were ensured at all venues where prayers were held as Pakistan battles a third wave of the coronavirus.