“Save Christmas Appreciation Shield” received on 15.01.2026
The Save Christmas Celebrations program was held at Swift Memorial First Presbyterian Church, Gujranwala, at 3:00 pm on 15th January 2026. Mr. Shahzad Lawrence, a member of the District Peace Committee, facilitated the program.
The Presbyterian Church of Pakistan, in collaboration with United Interfaith Organizations, organized a “Save Christmas Celebrations” program to present Appreciation Shields to civil administration and police officials in recognition of their outstanding services, foolproof security, and excellent arrangements on the eve of Christmas 2025. Worthy Rev. Dr. Majid presented these shields.
Mr. Shahzad Lawrence formally invited the worthy Syed Naveed Haider Sherazi, Commissioner Gujranwala Division, to the church and extended a warm and respectful welcome upon his arrival. The visit reflected a strong spirit of interfaith harmony and. mutual respect. The parishioners of the church, along with male and female pastors of the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan (PCP), warmly received the dignitaries with great enthusiasm. Their presence and gracious welcome symbolized unity, cooperation, an shared commitment toward peace, religious tolerance, and social cohesion. The event highlighted the importance of dialogue and collaboration between religious communities and civil leadership.
Mr. Shahzad Lawrence highly appreciated the productive and effective cooperation of the civil administration and police officials in making the Save Christmas initiative successful. He acknowledged their tireless efforts, professional dedication, and well-coordinated planning, which ensured peaceful, secure, and well-managed Christmas celebrations. Their proactive measures and constant vigilance created a safe environment for the Christian community to observe their religious festivities with confidence and joy. Mr. Lawrenc emphasized that such sincere cooperation reflects a strong commitment to public service and interfaith harmony. He further stated that this teamwork has strengthened trus between communities and state institutions, setting a positive example for future religious events.
The Worthy Commissioner, Mr. Naveed Haider Sherazi, Gujranwala Division, addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of religious harmony and peaceful coexistence. He shared several examples from Europe and America to support his views and appreciated the collaborative efforts of religious communities, civil administration, and law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace, harmony, and mutual respect during religious celebrations.
The Save Christmas Program was organized with the noble purpose of recognizing an honoring the dedicated services of civil administration officers, police officials, and members of the District and Division Peace and Interfaith Harmony Committees of. Gujranwala. Their collective efforts during major religious festivals, particularly Christmas and New Year 2026, played a vital role in ensuring peaceful celebrations, foolproof security arrangements, and an atmosphere of mutual respect and harmony among all communities.
Religious festivals carry deep spiritual, social, and cultural significance. In a diverse society like Pakistan, the responsibility of safeguarding such events requires not only professional efficiency but also sensitivity, cooperation, and a strong commitment to interfaith harmony. The civil administration and police authorities of Gujranwala demonstrated exemplary coordination, proactive planning, and round-the-clock vigilance during Christmas and New Year celebrations. Their tireless efforts ensured the safety of churches, worshippers, and public spaces, allowing the Christian community to celebrate their holy days with peace, dignity, and joy.
Alongside the state institutions, the members of the District and Division Peace and Interfaith Harmony Committees played a crucial bridging role. Through continuous dialogue, trust-building, and community engagement, these committees helped reduce misunderstandings, address concerns promptly, and promote unity among followers of different faiths. Their behind-the-scenes efforts strengthened cooperation between communities and authorities, proving that peace is best achieved through collective responsibility.
A significant highlight of the program was the presentation of Appreciation Shields, including one awarded to Mr. Shahzad Lawrence, in recognition of his valuable services and commitment to interfaith harmony and peace-building. These shields are not merely symbolic; they carry deep motivational value. Such recognition affirms that sincere efforts, honesty, and dedication do not go unnoticed. It encourages recipients to continue their mission with renewed passion and moral strength.
Appreciation shields empower individuals and institutions by fostering a sense of responsibility, pride, and ownership. They serve as a reminder that working for peace, protection of minorities, and social cohesion is a shared national duty. Public acknowledgment inspires others to step forward, strengthens teamwork, and reinforces trust between communities and authorities.
Mufti Ashiq Hussain and Maulana Asim Makhdoom, well-known and respected religious leaders from Lahore, actively participated in the program. Their presence added great moral value and strength to the event, reflecting a strong message of interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence. Both scholars emphasized the importance of mutual respect, dialogue, and unity among followers of different religions. By joining the Save Christmas Program, they demonstrated that religious leaders can play a vital role in promoting tolerance and understanding. Their participation was widely appreciated and served as a powerful example of solidarity, brotherhood, and collective commitment toward peace and harmony in society.
In conclusion, the Save Christmas Program stands as a powerful example of how recognition and gratitude can reinforce commitment. By honoring those who worked selflessly during Christmas and New Year 2026, the program not only celebrated their achievements but also laid a strong foundation for continued cooperation, peace, and interfaith harmony in Gujranwala.
