Pakistan to hold ‘green’ Marian pilgrimage

(Aug.04,2010) The Church in Pakistan will hold a green Marian pilgrimage September 3-5 in the Christian village Mariambad to raise environmental awareness. Thousands of saplings will be distributed to pilgrims taking part in this year’s Marian pilgrimage, said local Church leaders. Auxiliary Bishop Sebastian Shah of Lahore, a member of the pilgrimage committee said “We used to choose theological topics for the pilgrimage but switched to a secular subject which is deeply affecting our country. The recent devastation caused by floods can be attributed to global warming,” he added.
The September pilgrimage will have as it’s theme “Holy Mary, Queen of the universe.” Explaining the theme Archbishop Lawrence J. Saldanha of Lahore said, “Mary and the Earth are our mothers. The emphasis on the environment is an attempt to raise awareness that saving the environment is a religious duty,” said the prelate, who is also a member of the pilgrimage committee. Meanwhile, special intentions were offered at Sunday Masses for the victims of Pakistan’s worst floods. Media reports say more than 1,500 people have died and some 3 million people have been affected across the country. More rains are expected, threatening aid efforts. People are also fearing the outbreak of water-borne diseases such as cholera.