Lahore, August 9, 2025 – The Catholic Women’s Organization (CWO), in collaboration with the Kahwish Resource Center, organized a special program at the National Council of Churches, Lahore, to celebrate the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan.
The event paid tribute to the freedom fighters of the nation and highlighted the important role of minorities in Pakistan’s history and development.
Honored Guests
The program was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including:
- Rev. Fr. Asif Sardar, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Lahore
- Rev. Fr. Naqash Azam, Diocesan Director, Catholic Commission for Interreligious Dialogue & Ecumenism
- Sr. Peryani SCJM
- Mr. Muhsen Ali Turk, former Senior Vice President, Punjab Union of Journalists
- Pandit Bhaghat Lal, Hindu Community Pakistan
- Mr. Anees ur Rehman, Education Secretary, Punjab Government
- Dr. Ayra Inderyas, Member of NCWS from Punjab
- Mrs. Shamila Iqbal, Administrator, National Council of Churches
Opening of the Celebration
The program began with an opening prayer led by Rev. Fr. Naqash Azam, giving thanks to God for the blessings of Pakistan. The participants then sang the National Anthem, uniting everyone in the spirit of patriotism and gratitude for the nation’s history and sacrifices.
Ms. Shaheen Yousaf, Diocesan Coordinator of Lahore, shared the objectives of the day, reminding the participants that August 14 is not only a time for celebration but also for honoring the sacrifices of freedom fighters and reflecting on the values of freedom, unity, and self-determination.
Reflections on Minority Contributions
Ms. Fauzia Anil, National Coordinator of CWO, warmly welcomed the chief guests with flowers, while Sr. Genevieve Ram Lal, National Director of CWO and Member of the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW), welcomed all participants.
In her keynote message, Sr. Genevieve highlighted the vital role of minorities, particularly Christians, in Pakistan’s freedom struggle and nation-building. She emphasized the remarkable achievements of the Christian community, especially in the field of education.
She drew special attention to the longstanding issue of St. Francis High School, Anarkali, Lahore, owned by the Catholic Church. While 16 nationalized schools were returned to the Church in 2004, this particular institution remains unresolved. She urged civil society and government representatives present to assist in the rightful return of the school to the Catholic Church so that it may continue its mission of educating children and preserving the building as a heritage of Christian contribution.
Messages of Peace and Unity
Guests from different faiths and professions expressed their appreciation for the efforts of the CWO and Kahwish Resource Center in hosting such an inclusive event. They underscored the need for unity, tolerance, and mutual respect in society, stressing that minorities have always played a meaningful role in the nation’s development, despite facing challenges and discrimination.
Rev. Fr. Asif Sardar, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Lahore, extended greetings on behalf of Archbishop Benny Mario Travas, Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese. He congratulated the CWO for fostering interreligious dialogue and reminded all present that despite belonging to different religions and denominations, “our common identity is Pakistani.” He encouraged participants to remain committed to education, hard work, and service as their contribution to national progress.
Cultural Expressions and Closing
The Comrade Community Youth Group added vibrancy to the program with cultural and patriotic performances, raising the spirits of the audience and celebrating Pakistan’s rich diversity.
In recognition of their contributions to society, the guests of honor received appreciation shields. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Asif Sardar, Executive Director of Kahwish Resource Center, who expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests, civil society members, youth performers, and participants for making the celebration a meaningful and successful one.
Report Prepared by:
Ms. Shaheen Yousaf
Diocesan Coordinator, CWO Lahore
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