Prayers for Pakistan’s solidarity held at the historic Westminster Abbey

 

Prayers for the solidarity, prosperity and well-being of Pakistan and its people were offered at the historic Westminster Abbey - an honour bestowed for the first time on a Muslim country.

 

The Dean of Abbey, Rev Dr. John Hall led the hour long evening service at the famous 9th century church on 28th March.

 

Abbey which is on UNESCO World heritage list is also the traditional place of coronation and burial site for English monarchs and their consorts and other distinguished English personalities.

 

A group of about 30 members of UK-based Pakistani Christian community including Dr Peter J David of Federation of Pakistani Christians in UK and Former Mayor of the Midlands city of Rugby James Shera, attended the prayers. Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan to the United Kingdom, Mr Abdul Basit and other senior officials of the High Commission were also present on the occasion.

 

Speaking to the media before the service, Dr. Hall underlined the significance of interfaith harmony and said it was very important for building societies where everyone could live together in peace and harmony. “It is extremely important to have good relations with different faiths with a view to promoting mutual respect and understanding. We have great respect for Islam and the Muslims also have respect for Christianity,” he said.

 

Dr. Hall also spoke about very good relationship with the central London Mosque and said they want to build on these relations to create better interfaith harmony and promote mutual tolerance and respect. He explained that each year the High Commissioners of the Commonwealth countries are invited to this Abbey for prayers on the occasion of their National Day and this year invitation was extended to the Pakistan High Commission. “I am delighted that the High Commission accepted our invitation and joined us for the evening prayers”, Dr Hall said.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Pakistan’s Acting High Commissioner Abdul Basit thanked the Dean for organising the service for Pakistan and said this was the first time that prayers have been offered for his country in this historic Church.

 

James Shera regarded the occasion as a great honour for Pakistan. He said the members of the Pakistan Christian community living in Britain have deep links with their country of origin. He expressed happiness that they have gathered at Abbey to pray for Pakistan’s long lasting success and hope that the country is able to overcome challenges facing it.

 

 

Courtesy: APP