Shafique Khokhar

Christian activists take the case to court, which dismisses the prison’s argument for cancelling Sunday Masses, i.e. security concerns. For critics, the ban on Masses violates Article 20 of Pakistan’s constitution and Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The lack of religious freedom increases violence in society.

Fr Pius Corbelini inaugurated the church in 1940. The current bishop, who led the anniversary celebrations, explained the role he and his priests play, as well as the religious path the faithful must follow, and the importance of children education. He also talked about spreading the Gospel and helping the local community.

Promoted by Christian associations, the initiative is aimed at alleviating the psychological suffering of children. It began on 12 June and will end on 14 August with a grand finale. Activities include group theatre, music, outings, educational visits, meetings and discussions. For Michelle Chaudhry, this will give children back their confidence and hope.

Iftikhar Ahmad, coordinator of South Asia Partnership Pakistan, calls for a "serious discussion" to achieve change. Religious groups are "more powerful" than the state, and laws are being used against the innocent. For Pakistani priest, the justices’ decision sends a "positive signal". Bibi should be released and get compensation for the “psychological harm” she received, Christian activist said.

Mgr Samson Shukardin welcomed the city’s religious leaders and political figures on the eve of the feast of Eid al Fitr. During the meeting, he read messages from Pope Francis and Cardinal Tauran to the Islamic world. Countering sectarian violence and strengthening ties of friendship and cooperation between representatives of different faiths are key goals.

The Cecil Chaudhry & Iris Foundation took charge of the Catholic couple’s four children, and are providing them with an education. The eldest, Suleiman and Sonia, have past their year-end exam with flying colours. For Fr Mendes, the “Foundation is not just paying their fees, but is giving them the love they miss so badly.”

Msgr. Samson Shukardin stresses the importance of "Laudato sì" in a country wreaked by a water crisis and victim of climate change. The prelate traces some guidelines that will animate the work of the diocese on nature and ecology. Pakistani priest in Manila helps humanity "to find God in all things."

The "Punjab Protection of Women against Violence Act 2015" was approved on 20 May by the provincial government. The law does not define domestic violence or prescribe severe penalties for offenders.

Mgr Joseph Arshad, president of the Episcopal Commission, noted that the encyclical also comes to the defence of the "rights of the poor and the neediest people in the world." Pakistan’s Catholic community welcomes with an "open heart" the document and its reflections on the environment, justice and poverty. Hence, the prelate called for prayers for the environment and the conversion of lifestyles.

Environmental activists and groups are currently working hard to pass on carefully the contents of ‘Laudato sii,’ which is set to be published tomorrow, 18 June. Members of the media have been invited to preparatory debates. A video message from Card Tagle will be aired "as soon as possible" to explain the papal message, especially to young people.

Organizations against the exploitation of children protested demanding the cessation of the practice and the establishment of the right to education. In the country of 7.3 million young people are out of school and are employed in hazardous work.

Yaqoob Masih is accused of burning a book containing verses from the Qur‘an, which he had borrowed from a Muslim spiritual healer. A group of people beat him up and then dragged him to the local the police station. The local Christian community is now living under threat.