Interfaith Dialogue in Practice
Worthy Syed Naveed Haider Shirazi, Commissioner Gujranwala and Gujrat Division (consists of 6 Districts), is one of the hardworking bureaucrats. His services in promoting interfaith communication, religious tolerance, and peacebuilding are noteworthy.
A distinguished delegation of Christian leaders headed by Rev. Arif Masih Siraj, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan, paid a visit to the Commissioner’s Office in Gujranwala today. The visit was organized and facilitated by Mr. Shahzad Lawrence, an active and devoted member of the District/Division Peace Committee, who has continuously worked for promoting interfaith harmony, social justice, and peaceful coexistence among different faith communities.
Shahzad Lawrence visited the commissioner’s office the day before yesterday, met Mr. Nadeem Butt, PRO to Commissioner Gujranwala, and successfully booked an appointment to meet Commissioner Gujranwala and met in his office on Wednesday, 08.10.2025. Earlier, the delegation gathered at the house of Pastor Arif Siraj and from there went to the Commissioner’s office.
The delegation included respected representatives from the major Christian denominations in the region — the Roman Catholic Church, the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan, and the Church of Pakistan. Among the notable participants were Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ahmed, Parish Priest of St. Mark Parish, Mariam Saddiqa Town, Rev. Haroon Ajmal of The Christ Church, Church of Pakistan, Padri Naseem Akhtar, and Br. Shafqat John. Together, they represented the collective voice and aspirations of the Christian community in Gujranwala and surrounding areas.
The purpose of the visit was to congratulate Commissioner Syed Naveed Sherazi on his well deserved promotion and to acknowledge his dedicated public service, visionary leadership, and continued efforts to maintain peace, inclusivity, and development within the district. The delegation praised the Commissioner’s outstanding commitment to ensuring communal harmony and appreciated the role of the district administration in creating an atmosphere of unity among people of different religions and social backgrounds.
During the cordial meeting, the Christian leaders expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the wonderful arrangements and security measures made during major Christian festivities, including Christmas, New Year, and Easter celebrations. They commended the Commissioner and his team for their sensitivity and proactive steps in protecting the rights and safety of all religious minorities, ensuring that every community could celebrate its festivals with dignity, freedom, and joy.
On behalf of the Christian community, Shahzad Lawrence and the delegation members expressed appreciation for the Commissioner’s ongoing initiatives aimed at community welfare, environmental improvement, and inclusive development. They highlighted ho such administrative support strengthens the trust of minorities in state institutions and fosters mutual understanding among citizens of all faiths.
Furthermore, Shahzad Lawrence shared that practical step were taken at the grassroots level for the registration of minority cards for deserving Christian families, and this time, a large number of deserving people participated in the process.
In addition to their congratulations, the delegation also took the opportunity to present certain issues and challenges faced by the Christian community in Gujranwala. Matters concerning access to basic facilities, construction of the boundary wall around the cemetery, and representation in local welfare programs wer discussed constructively and respectfully. The Commissioner listened attentively and assured the visitors that their concerns would be taken seriously and addressed through proper channels.
The meeting concluded on a positive and hopeful note, with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, cooperation, and social harmony. Rev. Arif Masih Siraj expressed confidence that with continued coordination between community representatives and the district administration, the city of Gujranwala would remain a model of interfaith understanding and brotherhood.
As the delegation departed, Commissioner Syed Naveed Sherazi thanked the church leaders and community representatives for their visit, kind words, and valuable suggestions. He emphasized that the administration’s doors remain open for all, and assured his full support in promoting the spirit of coexistence and mutual respect.
This meeting symbolized not only a gesture of goodwill but also a strong message of unity and collaboration — a shining example of how faith-based leaders and government authorities can work hand in hand for the betterment of society and the peaceful progress of Pakistan.
