Pakistan's Historic Parish Marks 172 Years with Confirmations and New Way of the Cross

Archbishop Khalid Rehmat of Lahore administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 147 young Catholics and blessed an expanded parish campus featuring a new Way of the Cross as St. James Catholic Church in Sialkot celebrated its 172nd anniversary on July 12.

Sialkot, in Pakistan's northeastern Punjab province, is home to one of the country's oldest Catholic parishes. Founded in 1853 by Capuchin missionaries under the then Diocese of Agra in India, the church continues to serve as an important center of Catholic life in the region.

During the anniversary celebration, Archbishop Rehmat blessed the newly expanded parish grounds and inaugurated a one-kilometer Way of the Cross that includes the traditional 14 stations and a 15th station depicting the Resurrection. The stations, placed about 80 feet apart, feature reflections in Urdu, English, and Latin.

The memorial plaque was unveiled by 86-year-old Sr. Mary of Grace, RJM, of the Congregation of the Religious of Jesus and Mary, who has served Pakistan's education ministry for decades. She inaugurated the new installation together with the archbishop.

Parish priest Fr. Ashraf Gill, who organized the celebration with assistant parish priest Fr. Bernard Emmanuel, noted the special significance of the occasion. He said the parish was founded by Capuchin missionaries 172 years ago, making it especially meaningful that Archbishop Rehmat, himself a Capuchin, presided over the blessing of the new development.

Fr. Gill described the project as an important milestone in the parish's spiritual and pastoral journey, reflecting both its rich heritage and its continued growth.

The anniversary Mass also included the Sacrament of Confirmation for 147 candidates who completed six months of catechetical preparation.

In his homily, Archbishop Rehmat said Confirmation strengthens believers through the gifts of the Holy Spirit, enabling them to live their faith with courage and commitment.

He reminded the newly confirmed that they are called to become ambassadors of Christ by serving others, embracing sacrifice, and promoting peace within society.

Parishioners welcomed the new Way of the Cross, describing it as both a spiritual pilgrimage and a peaceful walking path that encourages prayer, reflection, and physical well-being.

The celebration began with a traditional welcome for the archbishop, including rose petals, cultural performances, and music. Following the liturgy, parishioners presented him with commemorative gifts in appreciation of his pastoral leadership.

The festivities concluded with Sindhi and Punjabi folk dances performed by parish youth, reflecting the cultural diversity and vibrant faith of the local Catholic community.