Pakistan: Quetta Vicariate Holds Lenten Recollection for Pastoral Workers

The Apostolic Vicariate of Quetta, Pakistan, held a two-day spiritual recollection for its pastoral workers, priests, and religious as preparation for the upcoming Paschal solemnities.

The recollection was organized in two phases to address the specific pastoral and spiritual needs of those serving across the vicariate.

The first phase was dedicated to priests and catechists and was led by Archbishop Khalid Rehmat, who recently concluded his service as Apostolic Vicar of Quetta and was installed as Archbishop of Lahore on March 28, 2026.

In his reflection, Archbishop Rehmat emphasized the collaborative nature of parish ministry. In Balochistan province, which comprises partly the vicariate, parishes often span vast distances, sometimes covering hundreds of kilometers. In this context, he said, the partnership between priests and catechists becomes the backbone of the local Church.

He also highlighted the “importance of the Cross” in the life of a missionary, noting that it is not merely a symbol of suffering but a source of grace. He encouraged participants to see the hardships of ministry, traveling through difficult terrain and serving marginalized communities, as part of their Christian identity and participation in the mission of Christ.

The second phase, held on March 31, brought together religious men and women serving in the vicariate. The keynote reflection was delivered by Fr. Tazeem Saghar, OFM Cap, on the theme: “Paschal Mystery: From the Cross of Ministry to the Joy of Resurrection.”

Fr. Saghar reflected on the challenges of religious life, including personal sacrifice, loneliness in mission, and pastoral fatigue. He described these not as obstacles but as pathways leading to the joy of the Resurrection. He invited participants to embrace the Paschal Mystery, allowing the daily “dying” in service to bear fruit in the new life of the Risen Christ.

Bishop Sebastian Francis, the newly appointed Apostolic Vicar of Quetta, attended the second phase of the recollection. His presence alongside the clergy and religious was seen as a sign of continuity and hope for the local Church.

Fr. Akmal Patras, OMI, one of the participants, said such gatherings are vital for those serving in challenging conditions. He noted that shared prayer and reflection help “rekindle the fire of mission,” enabling clergy and religious to return to their communities with renewed energy. “In the silence of Quetta, we find the strength to go back to the peripheries,” he said.

The program included guided meditations, Eucharistic adoration, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

As the recollection concluded on March 31, participants returned to their missions across the province with renewed spiritual strength and a deeper sense of Paschal joy as they prepared for the Church’s most sacred celebrations.