by Arwa Jawaid

Created on: October 10, 2010

Karachi is one home to one million Christians. This makes up about 1% of the population and though that is not much their presence is apparent in the city. The communities observe their religious holidays and festivals with much gusto and fervor and there is a lot of activity in the Christian populated areas of Karachi which are the Cantonment area and Saddar.

Easter is celebrated at the end of the Holy Week which occurs in the month of Lent which is the Christians’ fasting month. Holy Masses are held every evening of the week and many churches keep collective fast-breaking rituals. These activities are all undertaken in a modest fashion because it is a serious occasion. Good Friday is the day Jesus Christ was crucified and Easter is celebrated at the end of three days which was when he was resurrected.

In Pakistan Good Friday has been declared a holiday for the Christians by the government. The bishops have also requested for increased security measures because there are a lot of tensions where other religions are concerned. During Holy Week the whole community gets involved in its rites and rituals.

For the whole month of Lent there is participation by many members of the community. As Easter draws nearer, churches are full with the faithful gathering to listen to Mass. In the diocese of Karachi, the St Patrick’s Cathedral is full because they see a special meaning in the Mass. Even infrequent goers of Church come because they have not forgotten God.

Young people are very involved in the liturgical moments and celebrations during Holy Week. They put up demonstration of songs singing to the Passion, death and resurrection of Christ. They help in cleaning the Church, get involved in security measures or help the elders in the community for preparations.

On the occasion of Easter, a special tradition is the exchange of Easter Eggs. These eggs are made of chocolate and real eggs are hard-boiled and painted and decorated in an Easter Basket.

During this month, special attention is given to the poor and needy. The priests of the community get involved in confessions, Bible readings, counseling and motivational speeches. They also help to prepare Easter lunch for the inmates. These activities are a reminder that the Holy Father forgives everyone and then his resurrection takes on a special meaning i.e. everyone deserves a chance at renewal and to atone for their sins.

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