An Interfaith session with Muslim scholars at SMFP Church, Gujranwala
Religious leaders and community representatives participate in an interfaith meeting at Swift Memorial First Presbyterian Church, Gujranwala, on June 16, 2026, to promote religious harmony, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence in connection with the upcoming observance of Muharram-ul-Harram.
The meeting was hosted by Rev. Arif Siraj, Pastor Incharge of Swift Memorial First Presbyterian Church, who welcomed the participants and appreciated their commitment to fostering peace and understanding among different religious communities. The session was started with the recitation of Holy Bible, Holy Quran.
The session was facilitated by Mr. Shahzad Lawrence, a prominent advocate of interfaith harmony and peacebuilding in Gujranwala.
Mr. Shahzad Lawrence appreciated the continued cooperation between Muslim and Christian religious leaders in Gujranwala and noted that regular interfaith meetings have significantly contributed to maintaining a peaceful environment in the district. Participants acknowledged that the ongoing engagement of religious scholars and community leaders has helped strengthen trust, reduce misunderstandings, and promote social cohesion.
Maulana Jawad Qasmi, Haji Babar Rizwan Bajwa, Allama Kazam Turabi, Syed Khawar Bukhari, Pastor Ashir, Hafiz Zubair Khatana, Maulana Ahmad Noorani, Hafiz and Atif, who. participated in constructive discussions on strengthening unity and cooperation among different faiths.
During the meeting, the participants emphasized the importance of promoting mutual respect, tolerance, and brotherhood, particularly during Muharram-ul-Harram. The speakers highlighted that religious leaders have a vital role in guiding their communities toward peace, discouraging sectarianism, and encouraging dialogue and understanding. They reiterated that the values of compassion, respect, and service to humanity are common teachings shared by all religions.
The attendees also commended the consistent efforts being made in Gujranwala to bring together religious leaders from diverse backgrounds. They expressed their commitment to continuing such initiatives to ensure peace, harmony, and unity, especially during religious occasions and sensitive periods.
The meeting concluded with collective prayers for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Pakistan. Participants reaffirmed their resolve to work together for interfaith harmony, religious tolerance, national unity, and the promotion of a peaceful and inclusive society where people of all faiths can live together with dignity and mutual respect.
