The Christian community celebrated Christmas Day in the country as elsewhere across the world on Monday (Dec 25), commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.
Christmas, the biggest religious festival of the Christian community, is the celebration of rebirth, new beginning, forgiveness and peace, and renewing relationship with God and human beings.
Decoration of Christmas trees with colourful lights, special prayers and distribution of gifts among children and exchange of pleasantries are the main features of the day's festivities.
Christmas carols and hymns were sung before and after the prayer sessions at the churches.
President Abdul Hamid exchanged greetings with members of the Christian community at Bangabhaban on the occasion.
At that time, the President called upon all to play an effective role from their respective positions in upholding the country’s glorious tradition of communal harmony and brightening it further.
Cardinal of Bangladesh Patrick D' Rozario, ambassadors and representatives from different foreign missions, distinguished persons of the Christian community, religious leaders and professionals joined the reception.
A group of singers performed the Christmas carol at the reception.
Later, President Hamid cut a Christmas cake with members of the Christian community.