Report by Syed Farzand Ali (Lahore)
A delegation of bishops affiliated with the Pakistan Catholic Bishops Conference has highlighted the challenges faced by the Christian community in Pakistan during their “Ad Limina Apostolorum” visit to the Vatican City.
The bishops discussed issues including religious discrimination, blasphemy allegations, forced religious conversions and equal rights for Christians, while also expressing hope for stronger interfaith harmony and a better future for the Church in Pakistan.
According to Pakistan Catholic Bishops’ Conference President and Hyderabad Bishop Shakardin, the visit provided spiritual strength, renewed hope and fresh guidance for Pakistani bishops.
He said the delegation submitted detailed reports to various Vatican institutions regarding the condition of the Church and the Christian community in Pakistan.
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Bishop Shukardin stated that Vatican officials responded positively to the presentations and discussions, which he described as encouraging for the future of the Church in the country.
“The visit has given us renewed insight, motivation and hope for the future,” he said.
During the meetings, the bishops informed Vatican officials about the major difficulties faced by Christians in Pakistan.
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Bishop Shukardin said many Christians continue to face religious discrimination and social pressure because of their faith. He noted that issues such as blasphemy accusations, forced conversions and unequal treatment remain serious concerns for the Christian minority.
According to the bishop, some members of the Christian community do not fully enjoy equal rights and opportunities despite constitutional protections.
He expressed concern over cases where Christians face legal and social challenges linked to religious identity and intolerance.
Despite economic hardships and limited educational opportunities, Bishop Shukardin praised the resilience and faith of Pakistani Christians.
“Our people may be poor, but they are hardworking and strong in faith,” he said while describing the commitment of the Christian community to education, service and religious values.
He added that the Church in Pakistan continues its mission with optimism despite ongoing difficulties.
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The bishop also expressed confidence that Christians in Pakistan would eventually achieve complete equality and broader religious harmony in society.
He emphasized the importance of dialogue, tolerance and peaceful coexistence among different religious communities in the country.
Observers say the Vatican visit reflects the Catholic Church’s continued focus on religious freedom, minority rights and interfaith understanding in South Asia.
The “Ad Limina Apostolorum” visits are traditionally conducted by Catholic bishops worldwide to strengthen ties with the Vatican and brief Church leadership on local pastoral, social and religious conditions.
