TIMES REPORT
PESHAWAR: A historic interfaith gathering was held at the Diocese of Peshawar Church of Pakistan under the banner of the National Peace Message Committee, where religious leaders from different faiths and schools of thought reaffirmed their united resolve to promote peace, interfaith harmony, and reject terrorism and extremism.
Addressing the gathering, Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Ashrafi said the National Peace Message Committee was established under the directives of the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the vision of the Field Marshal to eliminate hatred, strengthen national unity, and foster harmony among all religious communities.
He thanked Humphrey Sarfraz Peters and the Diocese of Peshawar for hosting the committee’s first activity at a church, describing it as a powerful symbol that followers of all religions in Pakistan stand together for peace, love, and brotherhood. He added that the inclusion of minority representatives in the committee reflects a shared commitment to ending prejudice and promoting mutual respect.
Recalling the Peshawar church tragedy, Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi said religious leaders from every faith had stood with the Christian community during difficult times and continue to support one another. He termed the gathering a historic moment, with scholars and faith leaders meeting inside a church to send a united message against terrorism and extremism while paying tribute to the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces and the nation’s martyrs.
He stressed that Islam rejects coercion, forced conversions, and forced marriages, adding that Pakistan’s future depends on peace, tolerance, and respect for humanity. He said the country was created through the collective efforts of both Muslims and non-Muslims and belongs equally to all its citizens.
Speaking on the occasion, Bishop Humphrey Sarfraz Peters said nations are strengthened by the sacrifices of their martyrs and emphasized that religious leaders must work together to ensure Pakistan’s peace, stability, and interfaith harmony.
The ceremony was attended by religious scholars from various schools of thought, Christian community leaders, social figures, and citizens, who collectively reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, unity, and brotherhood across the country.
Leave a Reply