Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lahore (Agenzia Fides) – To commemorate the Christian heroes who gave their lives for Pakistan: a special celebration was held at the "Santa Maria" minor Seminary in Lahore, which was attended by priests, lay people and seminarians of the diocese.
Fr. Inayat Bernard, Rector of the Seminary, welcomed the civil and military and academic authorities present. The meeting intended to celebrate all Pakistani Christians who sacrificed their lives to defend or build the nation: those soldiers who fought bravely in the war and the men who fought terrorism. In particular, major Sermes Rauf, Cecil Chaudhry, other judges and intellectuals, including the Catholic minister Shahbaz Bhatti were recalled.
The journalist, Victor Denial recalled all Christians who served or are still serving Pakistan in different fields of public life, stressing that "we should be inspired by our Christian heroes". Others mentioned the Christian soldiers who, motivated by patriotism, defended Pakistan with courage and audacity. A documentary on the life of Cecil Chaudhary was presented, while all agreed in recognizing the merits of Seeta Parkash Singha, a Christian who in 1947 was president of the Parliamentary Assembly in Punjab, whose role was fundamental in the creation of Pakistan.
Colonel K.M. Roy who served for 34 years in the military in Pakistan, said: "We know that Pakistan is facing a challenge against religious discrimination and extremism. There is no religious discrimination in the army in Pakistan. All military, Muslims, Hindus or Christians are united in defending the nation". (IB-PA) (Agenzia Fides 17/09/2015)
