Shrieks of laughter and Christmas greetings resounded on the grounds of Saint Mary’s Cathedral where a Christmas carnival for children was held on Thursday.
Major churches in the city traditionally arrange carnivals for children on the day after Christmas. The event at Saint Mary’s Cathedral was organised by its women’s desk.
Multan Diocese Bishop Leo Paul Rodrick said these carnivals were a way to spread joy and share happiness. “That is the message of Christmas,” he said.
Children dressed in their Christmas finery participated in several activities, including musical chairs and balloon races. Stalls selling soup, snacks, trinkets and Christmas cards lined the garden where the carnival was arranged.
Sehrish Dean, who ran the soup stall, said, “We have a great attendance today. All the proceedings from my stall will go to the Church fund… I made a lot today.”
Multan Diocese Development Secretary Kashif Kamran said the carnival was an annual event. It featured stalls, games for children and adults and a lot of fun. “The best part about this carnival is that it allows families to mingle and meet in an informal fun setting,” he said.
“Regardless of where you’re from, everyone is so welcome that they feel at home.”
Bishop Rodrick said the government stressed a lot on the need to providing security at churches. “Considering the wave of extremism our country is grappling with, the city government ensured police deputations at all churches without fail,” he said.
A woman police constable deputed at St Mary’s Cathedral’s carnival said the security situation was tough indeed, but the police were well equipped to deal with it.
“We had to be at several churches and events. The people were very cooperative and friendly and we participated in the carnival,” she said.
A carnival was also organsied at the Full Gospel Church.
It featured a busy carousel, a small Ferris wheel and a trampoline for children to spend their pent up winter vacation energy. For Angela Gregory, a mother of two, such events provide a break for busy parents. She attended the carnival at the Full Gospel Church.
“Exhausted from all the festivities leading up to December 25, these carnivals offer parents a chance to get some rest while the children enjoy a full day of fun,” she said.
Satisfied with security
Kamran Iqbal, the carnival organiser, was happy with the security.
“The government provided excellent security for all Christmas events this year,” he said, adding, “Thankfully all the events took place without a hitch.”
Church treasurer Parveen Jalal said, “The carnival was a great success. I brought my grandchildren with me. They had a lot of fun.”
“I spent all my eidi here,” said four-year-old Tabitha. “I bought a necklace, biryani and food. I also won the balloon race.”
Choirs from various churches sang carols at a choir singing competition.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 27th, 2013.