Lahore: February 27, 2019. (Haroon Gill) A delegation of Capuchin priests visited Gandha Singh Border between India and Pakistan in the context of present tension between the two countries.

The delegation was led by Rev. Fr. Benedict Ayodi OFM Cap. He is the secretary of Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Italy.  He has been managing projects on peacebuilding, conflict management, human rights, poverty alleviation, and inter-faith dialogue projects in the U.S., Africa and Europe from the last many years. Rev. Fr. Francis Nadeem OFM Cap the Custos of the Capuchins in Pakistan accompanied him on this occasion who is a renowned peace activist and promoter of interfaith peace and harmony. The purpose of this visit was to give the message of peace, brotherhood, friendship, reconciliation and acceptance to the people of India and Pakistan.

Prayer for sustainable peace was offered and peace candles were lit up on this occasion. The peace prayer of St. Francis of Assisi was also disturbed among the people.

This peace visit to Gandha Singh Border was a joint effort of Mariam Siddeeeqa Capuchin Custody, Pakistan and National Commission for Interreligious Dialogue and Ecumenism (Pakistan Catholic Bishops’ Conference) in order to promote peace and harmony.