British missionaries say serving in Pakistan beautiful experience

LONDON: Tribute has been paid to British missionaries, educationists and philanthropists who have lived and served in Pakistan, working mainly with Pakistan’s Christian communities and in the education sector.

Pakistan High Commission London organised a reception here exclusively for the missionaries who devoted their time and efforts to work in Pakistan for many years and helped impoverished communities including making donations for their betterment. Pakistan’s new High Commissioner to the UK Nafees Zakaria said that the event entitled, “The Journey of Love” was part of his outreach initiative to connect with the British friends of Pakistan and the Pakistani diaspora in the UK.

A large number of British Pakistani Christians, British missionaries and educationists attended the event.

The missionaries shared with the audience fond memories of their work and stay in various parts of Pakistan and how they had received unforgettable hospitality and warmth from the locals.

They shared how serving in Pakistan changed their outlook about the country and made them a fan of Pakistan and its people.

Those who spoke on the occasion included Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Department for Transport Nusrat Ghani MP, Revd Rana Youab Khan, Mr. Rupert Gold, Mrs. Caroline Tisdall, Mr. Sandy Sneddon, Mrs. Rosemary James and Bishop Micheal Nazir Ali.

The speakers shed light on the contributions of the British friends in the progress and development in the socio-economic and cultural spheres of life in Pakistan since independence.

They praised the people of Pakistan for their hospitality, love and religious tolerance and said that ordinary people of Pakistan were most amazing to them throughout their stay.

The missionaries, many of whom now well-versed in Urdu, said that they considered Pakistan their second home and acknowledged that their experience of teaching and working in the country was a memorable experience and they cherished memories of the countries.

The high commissioner commended the contribution of the British missionaries, educationists and philanthropists towards the development and progress of various segments of society in Pakistan.

He said people of Pakistan still cherish the good work and fond memories of the British missionaries.

Zakaria acknowledged with deep appreciation the support of Christians, in particular, among the followers of other beliefs, to the Quaid-i-Azam towards creation of Pakistan and during the formative period of the newly born country.

The high commissioner said Pakistan is rich in cultural and religious diversity as its population comprises the Christians, Sikhs, Budhists, Hindus, Parsis, Zoroastrians, Bahais, and small portion of the Kalash, Kihals and Jains.

Speaking about the rights of country’s citizens of various faiths and beliefs, the high commissioner said that Constitution of Pakistan protects the rights of all the citizens without any discrimination.

The government of Pakistan is cognizant of its responsibilities towards its citizens, irrespective of their faith or belief. He stressed on interfaith harmony and love for all.