Pakistan Parish Builds Interfaith Bridges with Inclusive Free Medical Camp

A free medical camp was held at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Iqbal Nagar, a semi-rural community in Chichawatni, within the Diocese of Faisalabad in Pakistan's Punjab province, on July 24. The outreach was organized by Ascension of Mary Catholic Parish.

The initiative was organized to address the severe lack of accessible healthcare for local Christian and Muslim families, particularly in rural villages where specialized doctors are unavailable, leading many residents to rely on basic over-the-counter remedies or untrained practitioners.

By offering free clinical evaluations, the camp aimed to curb unsafe self-medication, diagnose seasonal illnesses, and distribute necessary pharmaceuticals to residents in need.

Embodying the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC) core vision of "building bridges" through practical dialogue and compassionate action, the medical camp was open to all residents regardless of religious affiliation.

An encouragingly large number of Muslim neighbors and local residents attended, using shared human need as a catalyst for interfaith unity and mutual trust at the grassroots level.

The camp was organized under the direction of Parish Priest Fr. Peter Shangara. Medical examinations, consultations, and drug distributions were conducted by Dr. Shaun Liaqat, a professional medical doctor with operational support provided by Liaqat Medical Clinic, Chichawatni.

Over the course of the event, healthcare personnel examined and provided treatment to over 150 patients.

"In rural areas, families often lack access to qualified specialists, forcing people to compromise their health by relying on basic pain relievers or unqualified practitioners who misdiagnose conditions and cause long-term harm," stated Fr. Peter Shangara.

 "Our goal is to fulfill our responsibility toward humanity by bringing proper medical expertise to those who cannot afford basic treatment, serving as part of our ongoing commitment to care for the health and well-being of our local community, and demonstrating that true Christian service builds bridges of friendship with our neighbors of all faiths."

Dr. Shaun Liaqat added, "Free medical camps are essential for detecting untreated health conditions early in low-income populations. By offering free consultations and medicines on-site, we can prevent common illnesses from escalating and provide immediate relief to patients who otherwise delay seeking medical care."

Local residents expressed gratitude for the inclusive spirit and quality of care provided during the event. Shamaila Imran, a female beneficiary who attended the camp, praised the medical team's thorough approach: "We are very satisfied with the doctor's way of dealing with patients. He took the time to provide proper instructions based on solid medical knowledge, while also guiding us on natural ways to maintain our health."

This event marks the second medical camp conducted by the parish management within its premises. The initiative operated under the organizational themes "Service of Humanity is Worship of God," "Your Health, Our Priority," and "Healthy Society, Prosperous Life," drawing inspiration from the biblical passage Matthew 25:36: "I was sick and you visited me".