The Pakistan Mission Unit
Columbans work in the diocese Hyderabad, down south in Sindh. Their ministry involves working with some of the poorest and most oppressed people in Pakistan. Education, health care and human rights issues are urgent and ministries. Human rights work plus justice and peace issues provide an opportunity for inter-faith dialogue, as these issues are worked on, along with concerned Muslims and Hindus.
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Justice Peace and the Integrity of Creation
JPIC has always been a priority of Columbans in Pakistan. As well as been actively involved in human rights and justice issues at the grass roots level, Columbans have also been at the forefront at raising awareness on urgent national and international concerns. In the 19990’s, this involved the Debt Campaign and the impact of Globalization on the poor. Today we are taking the initiative in raising awareness, through publications, workshops and radio programmes, on climate change, which is already having a major impact on Pakistan, especially its water supply.
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Inter Faith Dialogue
These issues also provide the opportunity for inter-faith dialogue as they concern all people. Women in Pakistan are very much second class citizens. LMs have been journeying closely with them, listening to their stories, encouraging and supporting their active participation in community life and activities.
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Formation
Formation and the empowerment of lay people is also a priority at the parish level, especially of young people. A number of Columbans are also involved in the formation through teaching, giving courses and retreats to diocesan seminarians, young religious and lay people who are being prepared for ministry in various church institutions.
