Pakistani Christian Diaspora in Bangkok Honors Christian Heroes Ahead of Independence Day

Pakistani Christian families living in Thailand gathered at Fatima Church in Bangkok on August 9 to commemorate Pakistan’s Independence Day and honor Christian figures who contributed to the country’s development.

The gathering, held ahead of Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day on August 14, included a Holy Mass and commemorative program presided over by Fr. Inayat Bernard, chaplain for the Pakistani community in Bangkok.

Held under the theme “Services of Christians in Pakistan,” the event brought together Pakistani Christian families to celebrate their national heritage and pray for their homeland. The Pakistani national flag was displayed prominently near the altar as a sign of solidarity with the country.

Children and young people sang patriotic songs during the program, expressing their continued connection to Pakistan despite living abroad.

In his address, Fr. Bernard highlighted the contributions of Christians to Pakistan in education, health care, social welfare and national defense. He said Christians have made sacrifices and served the country in various fields, adding that Pakistan continues to benefit from the prayers and dedication of Christian citizens at home and abroad.

The community also honored Christian figures whose contributions have shaped Pakistan’s legal, military, medical, cultural and sporting history.

Among those remembered were former Chief Justice Alvin Robert Cornelius; military figures Group Captain Cecil Chaudhry, Air Vice Marshal Eric Gordon Hall and Major General Julian Peter; medical and humanitarian pioneers Dr. Ruth Pfau and Sister Ruth Lewis; musicians Saleem Raza, A. Nayyar and the Benjamin Sisters; and sports figures Wallis Mathias, Pakistan’s first Christian Test cricketer, and Olympic hockey player Jack Britto.

Speakers also highlighted the continuing challenges faced by religious minorities in Pakistan and called for equal constitutional rights, legal protection and equal opportunities in education and employment.

They urged greater efforts to address discriminatory practices and uphold the religious freedom and dignity of all citizens, recalling the vision of Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

One Pakistani community member reflected on the bond between those living abroad and their homeland.

“Although we are away from our country and its streets, we remain deeply connected in spirit,” the person said. “We always send our best wishes for its prosperity and development, and above all, lasting peace in Pakistan remains our main wish.”

Following the liturgy, participants prayed for peace, security, social harmony and economic stability in Pakistan.

For the Pakistani Christian community in Thailand, the gathering also served as a way of passing faith and national heritage to younger generations while strengthening ties among families living away from their homeland.

The celebration concluded with a ceremonial cake-cutting and fellowship, bringing the community together in prayer, remembrance and celebration of Pakistan’s national heritage.