demonstrators, Archbishop Joseph said he was not only glad to see the students stand outside the cathedral throughout the prayers, but was now a bit hopeful for the country’s future.
“It was heartening to see a group of young enlightened people concerned enough to stand outside the cathedral for our safety. It is this resolve that we need to stem the rot from this country for good.”
Speaking of the distorted education imparted to generations, he welcomed the initiative to control hate speech.
NSF Karachi General Secretary Kabir Ali commended the community for its services in the fields of education and health. “Christians used to enrol Muslim students in their schools, but things changed after the State decided a religion for itself.”
“Mere statements upholding equality of citizens are no good; if you really do consider them equals then make it reflect in your policies.”
Parish Priest of the Cathedral, Father Mario, also thanked the people and added that it was encouraging to see youngsters stand in solidarity with the Christian community sans a religious bias. “The activity gave a message of unity among the general masses of the country.”
Legal Advisor Catholic Archdiocese Karachi, Saleem Michael, said the human shield was a beautiful symbol of love and protection.
Condemning the authorities concerned for not providing protection to the community, Michael said that following the Peshawar church attack in 2013, the Supreme Court had on June 19, 2014 directed the federal and provincial governments to ensure that adequate security was provided to the community’s worship places, but the decision was never implemented upon.
The NSF had earlier in collaboration with the Pakistan Youth Alliance formed a human shield outside the Shah-i-Najaf Imambargah during Friday prayers, followed by a chain outside the Sri Swaminarayan Mandir on Holi where they also later celebrated the festival with the Hindu community.