Catholics in Pakistan have sought strength from the holy Eucharist to enable them to face daily challenges as the Catholic community in the country celebrates the Year of the Eucharist.
"Our Christians are facing multiple difficulties in Pakistan. But the Holy Eucharist bears out to be the source of strength for them in face of every new day dawning with new challenge in their life of faith," said Bishop Joseph Arshad of Faisalabad, president of the Pakistan Catholic Bishops' Conference (PCBC).
The Year of the Eucharist in Pakistan runs Nov. 26, 2017 to Nov. 25, 2018.
The "Eucharist is life and the basis of faith. Just like the international community of priests, the Pakistani priestly community too celebrates the Eucharist with high reverence. Wherein, the faithful take part with dedicated sentiment of faith. For every celebration of the Holy Eucharist touches their lives," Arshad added.
Christians in Pakistan are facing several challenges, including poverty, religious rights, and gender equality. They are amid the darkness of hatred from the Muslim majority.
"We shall remain non-violent and support every effort for building a just society, where human rights are upheld, the dignity of men and women is promoted, family life is respected, and the values of the Kingdom of God are preached and lived. We shall use the pulpit to preach the Word of God, the dignity and respect for human beings and the message of Peace and promote harmony in Pakistani society," said Arshad.
Catholics are about half of the 2.5 million Christians in the Muslim-majority country.
The opening session of the Year of Eucharist was held in Karachi. Before launching the program on a national level, the Catholic community held a three-day festival of peace in diocese of Faisalabad.
