Pakistan Church Begins First National Mission Congress

(November 29, 2008) The Catholic Church in Pakistan has inaugurated its first mission congress. About 190 delegates -- priests, Religious sisters and brothers, lay catechists and other parishioners -- from the country's two archdioceses, four dioceses and one apostolic prefecture arrived Nov. 25 in Karachi for the four-day congress. They are reflecting on "Telling the Story of Jesus," echoing the theme of the first Asian Mission Congress, held in October 2006 in Thailand. Karachi is. Father Mario Rodrigues, national director of the Pontifical Mission Societies, which organized the congress, told UCA News participants would be encouraged to discover ways and means to promote Jesus and the word of God. Congress activities include prayers, workshops and sharing sessions. Multan diocese conducted a mission congress earlier this year, but the Karachi gathering is the Pakistan Church's first national mission congress. "Other dioceses will organize will similar activities after this historic event," Father Rodrigues added.