Lahore (AsiaNews) "The message of Easter is one of death to life, nothingness to something, darkness to light The Risen Christ is the Prince of Peace, He is the model for all of us to follow to spread the message of peace among all mankind": this is what Franciscan Fr. Francis Nadeem, witnessed in front of a group of Muslim, Hindu and Christian religious leaders.
On behalf of the National Commission for Inter-Religious Dialogue and Ecumenism (NCIDE), Fr Nadeem, the Executive Secretary, organized a get-together at Flattis Hotel, Lahore late in the evening on the 10th of April, the vigil of the highest Christian feast, Easter Sunday.
Religious leaders appreciated the high value of Easter.
Maulana Abdul Khaber Azad, Imam of the Badshahi Mosque greeted the Christians and declared that Muslims believe in Jesus as a prophet sent by God. He told those gathered that followers of Islam are willing and ready to spread the message of peace and harmony as preached by Issa (Jesus).
Maulana Waqar-ul-Husnanin Naqvi, the Secretary of All Pakistan Shi'a Community, said that Christmas and Easter create an occasion for all religions to come together to share their ideas with the hope of continuing to work together for social harmony in the country and the well-being of all humanity.
Hindu leader Dr. Manwar Chand said that Easter invites us to love one another as Jesus Christ has loved all humanity.
Mr. Hector Gabriel, a guest from France, shared his support of the initiatives for ecumenical dialogue during his visit, "As the NCIDE is working in Pakistan, we too are doing the same work in France. It is my wish in France to bring different religions together to sit and discuss common issues."
Present at the event were 40 lobbyists and dignitaries from different religions representing youth, workers and various religious sectors of society. (I.B.)