Archbishop Arshad Lays Foundation Stone of New Church in Gujrat
Gujrat (Babu Ahsan): On 18th May 2025, a significant milestone was achieved in the Gujrat parish as Archbishop Dr. Joseph Arshad, Bishop of Islamabad-Rawalpindi Diocese, laid the foundation stone for the Holy Rosary Catholic Church. The ceremony was attended by a large gathering of Christians from far and wide, who warmly welcomed the Archbishop.
Upon arrival, Archbishop Dr. Joseph Arshad was greeted with traditional Punjabi drumming and a shower of flowers. The local Christian community honored him with a traditional turban and garland. Students from St. Mary’s High School presented a cultural tableau and bouquets, adding to the festive atmosphere.
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Before laying the foundation stone, Archbishop Dr. Joseph Arshad celebrated the Holy Mass, con-celebrated by Fr. Basharat Exupère OMI (Delegation Superior for the Pakistani Oblates), Fr. Nasir Mehnga OMI, and Fr. Abid Saleem OMI. During the Mass, special prayers were offered for the country’s progress, stability, and peace.
In his homily, Archbishop Dr. Joseph Arshad reflected on the importance of the church as a place of worship and community gathering. He expressed his gratitude to God for making it possible to fulfill the promise of building a new church for the Gujrat parish.
After the Mass, Fr. Abid Saleem OMI expressed gratitude to Archbishop Dr. Joseph Arshad for keeping his promise to build the church. He also thanked the parish priests, sisters, and faithful for their hard work and cooperation in making the event a success.
Archbishop Dr. Joseph Arshad shared his vision for the diocese, emphasizing the need for a vibrant, educated, and skilled Christian community. He expressed his desire to see young people from Gujrat excel in various professions and contribute to the development of their families and the nation.
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With great ceremony, Archbishop Dr. Joseph Arshad laid the foundation stone of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, marking a moment of great pride for the parish. The event concluded with renewed hope and commitment to the growth and development of the Christian community in Gujrat.
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