Displaying items by tag: welcome

Pakistan’s reception of Sikh pilgrims from India on 4 November marked a rare moment of goodwill amid lingering hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. After deadly border clashes in May shut down the Wagah-Attari crossing, the arrival of over two thousand pilgrims to celebrate Guru Nanak’s 556th birth anniversary signals a cautious reopening of people-to-people ties. Pilgrims were warmly welcomed with flowers and rose petals before travelling to Nankana Sahib, Guru Nanak’s birthplace, and other sacred sites. Pakistan’s high commission in New Delhi said that its decision was consistent with efforts to promote ‘inter-religious and inter-cultural harmony and understanding’. For many Sikhs, visiting these shrines represents both spiritual renewal and a poignant reminder of Punjab’s divided heritage since partition. Yet, tensions remain high, with the Kartarpur Corridor (allowing visa-free access to the temple) still closed and both nations trading accusations over recent violence in Kashmir.

The parish of Riches Claires has a dedicated committee that has worked for thirty years helping new arrivals to Europe. For many residents in Brussels the Christian outreach was a key step for their integration into the city. Most refugees in the church arrive after fleeing their countries of origin for economic or political reasons. However, arriving in their new home has not been easy for most, particularly those from Latin America who, for the most part, had to learn from scratch the intricacies of the local language. ‘The uprooting of our culture, of leaving our family members and leaving our friends is very painful,’ said Zoraida, a Colombian human rights defender. Over the years, the church community has evolved following the migratory waves. The first to arrive were Spaniards, then Chileans. More recently, it has been Venezuelans and Central Americans fleeing violence.

In Acts we are told the church enjoyed the favour of all the people. What reputation does your church have – austere? cliquey? unreal? judgmental? Or is it seen as warm and welcoming to everyone in your community? Is it a place that shows God’s goodness? God’s mercy is wonderful - it can reach anyone. Let it fill our hearts.

(Steve Botham, World Prayer Centre)