Prelate sees ‘new springtime’ for Church in Pakistan

July 01, 2014

The recent appointment of new bishops to two of Pakistan’s six dioceses, as well as the appointment of an apostolic administrator to a third, presages a “new springtime” for the Church in Pakistan, said Archbishop Sebastian Shaw of Lahore.

“They are very positive steps for the Church,” he told the Fides news agency. “New leaders and new ideas: the Church of Pakistan needs it … There is human harmony among us. We intend to adopt a methodology of cooperation in all fields.”

“In Lahore alone we have 300 [catechists], scattered throughout the territory,” Archbishop Shaw continued as he discussed Church life in Pakistan. “Catechists are an important presence, because they live in the midst of people. They are lay people, they are our missionaries in the suburbs. Our catechetical centers are vital points for the local Church and evangelization.”

“In Catholic schools, in Lahore alone we have over 800,000 students, 90% are Muslims,” he added. “In schools, ‘dialogue of life’ is carried out-- a path for the construction of an open, tolerant and pluralistic society, characterized by peaceful coexistence.”

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• The Archbishop of Lahore: "A new springtime for the Church in our country" (Fides)