Pakistani priest’s Christmas message: “Never take the freedom to express your faith for granted”
In Lahore, Pakistan, where Christians make up only a small minority in a predominantly Muslim society, Christmas takes on a special meaning. Despite facing significant challenges and restrictions, the Christian community continues to celebrate the birth of Christ with deep faith.
Father Lazar Aslam, a Franciscan Capuchin Priest, has served the faithful in Pakistan for years, offering pastoral care and spiritual guidance in a time of great adversity. In this interview, Father Lazar shares with Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) the essence of Christmas for his community in Pakistan and leaves a message for Christians around the world.
How does your community celebrate Christmas in Lahore, considering the challenges you face as a religious minority?
The community of the faithful continues to celebrate the Faith, even though we are a minority in a predominantly Muslim society. Despite the challenges, we hold steadfast to our belief, just as the early Christians did. We remember and honour martyrs like Akash Bashir, who gave his life to save others, and Shahbaz Bhatti, a courageous advocate for religious freedom, who was assassinated for his commitment to justice and the protection of minorities. Shahbaz Bhatti’s legacy continues to inspire us, as he was a champion for the oppressed and a tireless voice for those persecuted for their faith.
His life reminds us that standing for truth and love can come at a great personal cost, yet it is through such sacrifices that we truly embody the spirit of Christ.
What does Christmas mean to you and your community in this context?
For us, Christmas is hope, a reminder that Jesus was born into a humble and difficult situation to bring salvation to all (Luke 2:10-11). It strengthens our faith that, even in difficulty, God’s light shines through. It is a time for unity, where our community comes together to celebrate God’s unconditional love. The birth of Christ inspires us to remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that His peace transcends all obstacles (John 14:27).
As a minority, we celebrate Christmas with faith and devotion, ensuring that the true essence of the season is not lost. Though external restrictions may limit public expressions of faith, we gather in our homes and churches, reflecting on the message of the Nativity. We prioritise the Eucharist, as the celebration of Christ’s birth reminds us of Emmanuel – God with us (Matthew 1:23). Through prayer, carols, and small acts of kindness within our community, we keep the spirit of Christmas alive, emphasising the hope and joy that Jesus brings, despite our challenges.
What message would you like to share with other Christians around the world who might not understand the challenges you face?
To our brothers and sisters worldwide, we urge you to remember that faith often grows strongest in adversity (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). We ask for your prayers and solidarity, recognising that we are united as one body in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:26). Never take the freedom to express your faith for granted, and let our perseverance remind you of the power of God’s love to sustain us in all circumstances. May we all work together to promote peace and understanding, as the angels proclaimed at Christ’s birth: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14).
