The Spiritans in Pakistan live in a predominantly Muslim state where consideration is not lavished on minority groups (Catholics are about 1% of the population). Their missionary life is largely one of witness. They have a parish in Rahim Yar Khan where they are at the service of Punjabi Christians who are at the lowest end of the social scale.

This provides the base for the missionary approach to the Marwari Bhils, a nomadic people with traces of Hindu spirituality. Because of lack of personnel, the group had to disengage from another parish in Sukkur last year while at the same time starting a community at Sadiqabad near Rahim Yar Kahn. This was a consolidation of resources in favour of ministry to the Marwari Bhils and of Spiritan community life.

 

The language is very difficult. The Muslim atmosphere is all pervasive and requires maintaining a constant state of alert to simply survive. Outlets for recreation are hard to find. The group has put its faith in living an intense community life with a strong emphasis on prayer.

Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Ailesbury Villa
1B Ailesbury Road
Ballsbridge
Dublin 4
Tel: 01 261 3032/01 261 3033/01 2606938
Fax: 01 261 3007
E.Mail: Parepdbn@yahoo.com

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