Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Faisalabad (Fides Agency) - “Pope Francis was a promoter of peace and solidarity everywhere and in all circumstances; in Pakistan we remember him with great respect and affection. His voice, which he always raised in favor of harmony and brotherhood, remains a light and a guide for Christians in Pakistan and for all people of good will,” said Bishop Indrias Rehmat of the Diocese of Faisalabad in Punjab, Pakistan. “Pope Francis' spiritual, social, and humanitarian commitment to promoting unity, peace, and harmony remains intact,” which is particularly important in a predominantly Muslim country like Pakistan, which is sometimes plagued by terrorist violence. Civil authorities, believers of different faiths, and ordinary citizens emphasized Pope Francis' “unwavering commitment to global peace and fraternity” and praised “his tireless efforts for a more compassionate and united world,” the bishop said, noting how Pope Francis was perceived in Pakistani society.
The Archbishop of Karachi and Apostolic Administrator of Lahore, Benny Travas, who in recent days invited priests, nuns, catechists, and leading representatives and believers of other Christian denominations in Lahore to a prayer service, described Pope Francis as “a champion of mercy and peace.” The joint prayer for Pope Francis was a significant expression of unity between the various Christian denominations in the country, where Christians make up only 2% of the population (1% are Catholics and 1% belong to other denominations), but make an important contribution to the country's development through schools, hospitals, and social services that are highly valued, as well as through the promotion of peaceful coexistence between different faiths, cultures, and ethnic groups.
In Pakistan, believers of different Churches are engaged in a fruitful ecumenical journey and seek to live the main religious holidays, but also ordinary life, in communion and close collaboration.
Anglican Bishop Azad Marshall, Moderator of the Church of Pakistan, described Pope Francis' legacy in Pakistan as follows: “His humility, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice and dignity for all were an authentic expression of Christianity. His legacy will continue to inspire us all to walk faithfully in the light of Christ and to serve the Gospel with compassion and courage.”
The representatives of the various Christian denominations also emphasized that Pope Francis, “as a shepherd, reminded the world of the importance of empathy, kindness, and entering into a relationship and connection with the soul of every person one encounters, across religious boundaries. His ability to connect with the innermost being of each person he spoke with demonstrated his deep understanding of the human experience.” This aspect, they said, “is very important for us believers who live in an environment and society where the majority belongs to a different religion than our own, and sets an example for everyone's life.” They concluded by saying, “Pope Francis' emphasis on human solidarity and empathy is a powerful appeal to our common humanity. Today, we in Pakistan feel invited to embrace the same values of compassion, kindness, and love that have characterized his person and his pontificate.”
(PA) ( Fides Agency 2/5/2025)
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