Special prayers will be held at churches today on this occasion of the biggest religious festival of the community. The day is a public holiday.

The churches and adjoining grounds will be decked out with little colourful blinking lights and illuminated Xmas trees will be placed with a star standing right on top. Besides, Santa Claus will hand out Christmas presents to the children, family gatherings will take place and a Christmas Day feast will be held.

Tight security measures have been taken in the capital and in divisional and district headquarters for a peaceful celebration of the festival. Police and Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) members will remain on guard at the churches across the country while intelligence officials have started monitoring all the churches.

According to Christian beliefs, God entered the world of men through his son, Jesus Christ, on this day. In addition, it is also a celebration of rebirth, new beginnings, forgiveness and peace as a new year approaches. It is an occasion for the Christians to renew their relationship with God and with their fellow humans.

A number of organisations, individuals and five star hotels Sonargaon and Sheraton will arrange parties featuring Christmas carols, games and dance shows. There will also be special luncheon and dinner and celebration with Santa Claus and Christmas cakes.

Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar as well as private TV channels will broadcast special Christmas Day programmes, while national dailies will publish supplements highlighting the significance of the day.

In separate messages yesterday, President Dr Iajuddin Ahmed, BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and Awami League (AL) President Sheikh Hasina greeted the Christian community of the country on the occasion.

In his message President and Chief Adviser of the Caretaker Government Iajuddin Ahmed said the ideals of Jesus Christ inspired the people to follow the path of truth, peace and welfare. "Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony. We all will have to uphold this great tradition," he added.

Khaleda Zia in her message said that Jesus devoted his life for humanity and Christianity is a religion of peace and solidarity. She wished all happiness in Christmas.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Christian Association, Bangladesh Hindu-Bouddha-Christian Oikya Parishad, Chhatra Jubo Oikya Parishad, Mahanagar Sarbajanin Puja Committee and Jatiya Party (Manju) have offered their greetings to the Christian community for Christmas.

Archbishop Poulinus Costa, head of the Christian community in the country, in a pre-Christmas day meet with journalists said, "Jesus came into the world to bring peace by sacrifice and forgiveness." He urged all to be inspired by the teachings of Jesus and share sorrow, forgiveness and love among all.