We will have seven new priests in 2017, Archbishop Sebastian Shaw

Lahore: A good news for the Catholic community in Lahore and for the Church in Pakistan, Archbishop Sebastian Francis Shaw says “We will have seven new priests in 2017”.

Archbishop Sebastian Shaw who leads the community of baptized in Lahore said, “The church is growing in numbers. This year we will celebrate the ordination of seven new priests, who completed their studies in theology. Last year we had five orders. They are a sign of blessing for us. The Lord gives us new vocations and new priests and increases faith in our community “he continues.

Msgr. Shaw said “during the Year of Mercy in the Archdiocese, we opened two new parishes and new Catholic schools, a sign of God’s mercy towards his people and a sign of blessing for us. All the faithful to thank God for these gifts and have renewed hope in the heart, “he told.

The Archbishop recalled the great pilgrimage that takes place every year in his diocese Marian Shrine of Mariamabad, “Thousands of faithful on September 8 perform a long journey, on foot, to reach the sanctuary and plead with the Virgin Mary. It’s manifestation of deep faith, “he told.” They are pilgrims from all over the country.

On the other hand, the Archbishop further told, “the challenges are many. Christians live some difficulties due to the presence of Islamic militant groups in Punjab. Our response to neutralize the violence is increasingly engaging in inter religious dialogue that brings believers of different faiths. Through the dialogue between religious leaders, we learn from each other, we influence constructively ordinary people, and we work together to make Pakistan a better country “.