Fr. Lazar: “The Churches' role among migrants is to build bridges”

The new book by the Capuchin friar at the forefront of service to persecuted Christians and displaced populations was presented in Lahore. The book draws on biblical teachings and the Catechism of the Catholic Church on welcoming strangers and calls for creativity in responding to people's needs.

Lahore (AsiaNews) - The Capuchin and Salesian Franciscan communities in Lahore recently promoted the presentation of the book Building Bridges: The Role of the Church in Supporting Immigrants and Refugees, a new work by Fr Lazar Aslam, a Capuchin friar, dedicated to the Church's commitment to migrants and refugees.

The book was launched on two significant occasions: the first was held at the Don Bosco Technical and Youth Centre in Youhanabad and the second at the convent of St Mary in Gulberg, on Capuchin Day. Both events were attended by numerous friars, religious, young people and community leaders, demonstrating the interest and support for the topic.

The book was introduced by the Capuchin Definitors General, Fr. Marek Miszczyński and Fr. William Chang, together with the Custos of Pakistan, Fr. Ejaz Bashir, and the leaders of the local fraternity. During the presentation, Fr Ejaz Bashir praised the author for his intellectual rigour and his long-standing humanitarian commitment, particularly in favour of persecuted Christians and displaced populations.

Building Bridges offers a theological and pastoral reflection on the Church's task of accompanying the most vulnerable, defending the rights of refugees and promoting a culture of welcome that transcends cultural and national boundaries, in a global context marked by growing hostility towards migrants.

During the events, the book was presented to several Capuchin friars as a token of appreciation for their pastoral service. The presentations drew on the biblical teaching and the Catechism of the Catholic Church on welcoming strangers, also recalling Pope Francis' appeals for mercy and solidarity towards migrants and refugees.

At the heart of the work is the author's vision, which in his ministry in Pakistan is inspired by the Gospel and the parable of the Good Samaritan. Fr Lazar Aslam identifies four fundamental elements for ‘building bridges’: love as the main motivation, the ability to evaluate and learn from experience, creativity in responding to needs, and collaboration that makes others protagonists of change.

At a time when migration continues to be one of the greatest global challenges, Building Bridges is a significant contribution to the debate on the role of the Church, offering concrete guidance for religious communities called to bear witness to the Gospel of welcome and human dignity.