Pre-Christmas party for 'French Colony' children in Pakistan

(December 03.2011) The Christian children of the so-called "French colony" in Islamabad were treated to a small taste of Christmas on Friday. The Masihi Foundation organized a party for delivery of gifts to students who attend the local school, along with moments of fun and games, which was also attended by a Muslim human rights activist, who distributed sweets to those present . The educational institution run by the Pakistani Foundation that is fighting for the rights of minorities, which was opened earlier this year by the bishop of the capital, is home to many children of the so-clled ghetto where religious minorities live in conditions of marginalization and poverty. The school is an element of hope and of social redemption for many Christian families who want a better future for their children. Late Friday afternoon the children of the community, were accompanied by their parents, to the school at the centre of the "French colony" to participate in this special celebration of "Christmas." Fr. Anwar Patras, Director of the centre led the opening prayer and, referring to the school opened in the "ghetto", spoke of the fundamental importance of education for social redemption. "No human being - said the priest - can survive without education", which is a "primary good" such as food, clothing and shelter. Because the school is not only a place for study and learning, but it is also a place to "meet and interact with friends and teachers." He concluded saying that "Education will prepare you for a wise leadership", hoping for a better future for new generations of Christians in Pakistan.