Caritas Pakistan Marks Six Decades of Compassionate Service
Lahore: On 8th November 2024, a Thanksgiving Mass was held at Catholic Renewal Center, Youhanabad-Lahore to commemorate Caritas Pakistan’s 59th years of service, led by His Excellency Bishop Samson Shukardin, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Pakistan. The Mass was attended by all bishops of Pakistan, directors of dioceses, executive secretaries, and board members of Caritas. At the beginning of the Mass, Mr. Mansha Noon, Executive Secretary of Caritas Pakistan Karachi, gave introduction of the Holy Mass, saying that Caritas Pakistan started its services in 1965 and has now completed 59 years. Next year will be the jubilee year.
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The first reading was from the letter of St. Paul to the Philippians, while the Gospel reading was from the Gospel of St. Luke. Delivering the homily, Archbishop Benny Mario Travas said that whenever he hears the word “jubilee,” he remembers Fr. Joe Paul’s 50th anniversary celebration. On that occasion, Fr. Joe Paul had said two things: “I thank God for all the good works I have done, and I seek forgiveness from God and you for all my mistakes & sins.”
Archbishop Travas explained that jubilee means thanking God and making plans for the future to improve our past actions and pray for it. We should keep three things in mind:
- Thank God for His blessings.
- Reflect on our mistakes and seek forgiveness from God.
- Plan and move forward with enthusiasm.
Today’s Gospel mentions the parable of the dishonest steward who was lazy in his work but he planned for his future. St. Paul also tells us in today’s first reading that our homeland is in heaven, meaning our aim and goal are not worldly but heavenly. We should think from our heart, which is not easy.
As we begin Caritas Pakistan’s 60th jubilee year, let us act on these three principles to share in God’s joy.
Gifts were distributed among the bishops and staff. Finally, Bishop Samson Shukardin lit the jubilee candle with the conclusion.
Mr. Amjad Gulzar, Executive Director Caritas Pakistan, while interacting with Catholics in Pakistan, stated:
Today, we celebrate 59 years of serving humanity. As we enter our 60th year, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting human dignity, social justice, and peace. We thank our team, partners, and supporters for their tireless support.
We invite all stakeholders to join us on this momentous journey. Together, let’s build a just, equitable, and compassionate society where every individual can live with dignity and hope. We eagerly anticipate your continued support and partnership as we script the next chapter in Caritas Pakistan’s history.”
As a gesture of solidarity and care for the environment, a tree plantation drive was held after the Holy Mass, with active participation from the bishops and Caritas staff.
The entire programs were organized under the supervision of Mr. Amjad Gulzar, Executive Director of Caritas Pakistan.
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