Peshawar Diocese - Church of Pakistan

Bishop’s Christmas Message

(Translation of Bishop Humphrey Peters Christmas message
that he has shared with the Diocese.)

Our country Pakistan is passing through a troubled period. On one hand, we are caught up in war against terrorism while on the other hand, hunger, price hike, injustice is weakening the country. Natural disasters, calamities and suicide bombings have taken away smiles from the people’s faces. Pakistan’s internal conditions have shattered the entire country, and out of the Country, we have lost most of our good International friends. In this situation, can we the Pakistani Christians, though very small in number, become a source of peace, comfort and joy for our own country?

I feel the living nations have always overcome the hard times provided they have the Will to do so. Life is closely connected to spirit; we the Pakistani Christians with the rest of the body of Christ around the World claim to have a comforter, a helper in the shape of Holy Spirit (John 16: 7), can we the Christians by asking the Holy Spirit become a source of comfort, peace and joy for our own country. With faith it is possible, but at the same time we need to remember that Jesus said I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful (John 15: 1-2).

Then He says I am the vine; you are the branches (John 15:5). If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you (John 15:7).

Like many previous years, once again 2010 is taking us toward the celebrations of the Christ’s birth on the 25th of December. Once again Christ birth is reminding us to connect ourselves, His branches, with the True Vine that His Spirit starts moving in us because apart from Him we are nothing. Let His fragrance through us become a source of Peace, Joy and Comfort for every Pakistani who right now is weary and burdened.

May the blessing of Christmas and joys of the New Year always remain with us all.

With prayers and good wishes.

+ Humphrey S. Peters,
Bishop of Peshawar.