Report on the URI International Women's Day Celebration in Lahore, Pakistan

10 March 2011
participants group photo

Its with great joy that I am sending you a comprehensive report on the celebration of International Women's Day in Lahore, Pakistan. Sr. Sabina, Coordinator URI Women Wing Pakistan was the Chief Organizer of this great event and she has prepared this report. I am grateful to her for writing this report so promptly. There were over 150 women present at this fabulous occasion.

three girls in a group photo

In spite of all the difficult circumstances in our country where there is a so much of intolerance, fear, violence, discrimination, insecurity, terrorism, fanaticism and no freedom of speech or expression. In such situations we are the beacon of light, hope, courage and interfaith harmony. And also bring some hope to the suffering humanity if our country. Can you imagine that on 8th of March at International Women's Day there was a huge bomb blast in Faisalabad - the home town of Sr. Sabina - in which 27 innocent people were killed and 130 seriously injured. Due to this bomb blast our URI women members and guests were not able to join us for this seminar. A couple Christians were also killed in this horrific blast.

In spite of all these difficult times, hindrances and challenges we carried on our peace and harmony mission. We keep on giving hope to our people and especially women.

group photo

In what I observed and heard in at this occasion of International Women's Day seminar, I believe these women can bring a positive change in our society and they can play an imperative role to bring healing and reconciliation in much much disturbed nation. God bless women of our country and the world over.

May Peace Prevail On Earth!

fr James Channan OP, URI Regional Coordinator Pakistan

Click here to read the full report.