During their ad limina visit to the Vatican, bishops from Pakistan conveyed both the aspirations and the difficulties facing Christians in their country. Bishop Samson Shukardin, President of the Pakistan Catholic Bishops’ Conference and Bishop of Hyderabad, highlighted challenges such as discrimination, blasphemy accusations, and forced conversions, while expressing optimism for equal rights and a better future for the Christian community in Pakistan.
Bishop Shukardin noted that the visit brought encouragement and renewal to the bishops. He stated, “This ad limina is very important for us because spiritually and physically, this has given us a new insight and new hope in the coming future.” The Pakistani delegation presented reports to various Vatican dicasteries and received affirmative responses from Church officials, which he described as significant.
Reflecting on the situation of the Church in Pakistan, Bishop Shukardin underscored that evangelization was a core challenge for the local Catholic community. He acknowledged the commitment and zeal of the Catholic faithful, who, despite economic struggles and limited educational opportunities, maintain a strong faith. “Our people are still illiterate but strong in faith,” he remarked, emphasizing their hard work and dedication.
The bishop also pointed to the pressing issue of blasphemy laws and forced conversions, which continue to threaten religious minorities. “We have a big problem regarding the blasphemy cases,” he affirmed, mentioning that the Christian community often endures rejection and persecution for their beliefs. “Sometimes our Church is rejected, persecuted because we are not going where they are expecting,” he explained. However, despite these adversities, Bishop Shukardin remained hopeful, stating, “Our Church is going through difficulties, but we are very hopeful. We are hopeful that one day we will get our equal rights in Pakistan.”
