Two Urdu-language books on Christmas presented in Faisalabad

(December 29, 2011) Amid bouquets and garlands, the Diocese of Faisalabad, Pakistan, presented two books in Urdu written by two Pakistani priests. For the diocese’s vicar general, Fr Khalid Rasheed Asi, they “are instruments teachers can use to explain the meaning of Christmas to their students.” The first one is titled Pratish, meaning Worship and is the work of Fr Iftikhar Moon. The second is called Christmas and Basharat, meaning Christmas and evangelisation by Fr Younas Shahzad. The book launch was held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Faisalabad on Wednesday and was attended by priests, catechists, nuns, teachers, students and social workers. Christmas and Basharat by Fr Younas was especially well received. “With his spirituality, the author enlightens the readers,” said Fr Khalid Rasheed Asi. “The book explains in a clear fashion that the birth of Jesus and the Good News are centred on the poor, the needy and the sinners.” Fr Younas’ book “explains the importance of some Christmas symbols like the crib, the tree and the stars. It is a beautiful combination of love, peace and evangelism, which is what society needs today,” said Fr Iftikjar Moon, author of the other religious text. “The book is written in a simple way so that a large number of people could benefit from reading it,” Fr Younas said. “I hope it helps readers grow in faith, knowledge and wisdom.”