Bishop Azad Marshall

Today as I arrived in the UAE for a brief visit, I paused in prayer and asked God’s blessing upon this land. Standing in the immigration queue I was struck by two very different stories unfolding in our region: the story of the UAE and the story of Iran. Both nations are rich in resources and history. Yet their paths have been starkly different over the past five decades. Their decisions and their interactions with the international context vastly different. Since its founding in 1971 under the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE has used its resources to build opportunity, create jobs for millions, and welcome people from across the world. Under the leadership today of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, alongside leaders such as His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the rulers of the Emirates, the UAE has continued to cultivate stability, prosperity, and remarkable openness. Importantly for me as a Christian leader responsible for the Episcopal Anglican Service in Iran and the Gulf, I am conscious that the UAE has also unflinchingly provided space for Christian worship, dignity, and hope for many expatriate believers who live and work here. Sadly, since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iran’s vast resources have too often been used not for the flourishing of its people but to sustain repression. Many in Iran, especially Christians, have faced hardship, fear, and persecution. As a Bishop with responsibility at various times for Anglican communities both in Iran and across the Gulf, I carry both these realities in my prayers. Today I pray: May God bless the rulers and leaders of the UAE who have created opportunity for so many. May the UAE continue to know God’s protection and peace. And may the people of Iran know freedom, justice, and hope. May the yoke of oppression and injustice be broken across the waters and the sands in Iran and may God’s mercy bring renewal where oppression and hostility have painted so different a picture. Amen. #prayfouae #worldpeace #presidentuae #Primeministeruae #khaleejtimes #gulfnews #cnn #Bbc #newyorktimes #unitednations #anglicanchurch

I am sincerely grateful to Ms. Marriott for hosting us this evening at the British High Commission in Islamabad and for creating a space marked by unity, respect, and meaningful fellowship. The enduring vision of Muhammad Ali Jinnah—reflected in the white and green of our national flag and echoed in our National Anthem—reminds us that Pakistan was founded upon the principles of equality, dignity, and freedom for all its citizens. As Ramadan and Lent bring two great faith communities into a shared season of fasting, prayer, and reflection, we are reminded that the Constitution of Pakistan affirms the equal worth and rights of every citizen. This shared moment calls us to renew our collective commitment—to harmony over division, unity over discord, and hope over despair—for the flourishing of our beloved nation. 🇵🇰🤝✨

We are deeply grieved by the attacks that have taken place in Islamabad against a place of worship. At a moment when the nation was experiencing a breath of fresh air—when families gathered on rooftops to celebrate Basant—we were painfully reminded that violence still seeks to intrude upon our shared life. In this time of sorrow, we remember in prayer our elected leadership, our law-enforcement agencies, and our armed forces, who continue to serve with courage and sacrifice. Terrorism will not overwhelm the story that is Pakistan in this hour. We, the Brother Bishops of the Church of Pakistan, join together to offer our heartfelt condolences to the leaders and congregation of the Imambargha in Islamabad and to the leaders of our nation who strive day and night to uphold peace and goodwill within Pakistan’s borders. Have mercy, Lord. Heal our land, and strengthen the resolve of all who stand to preserve and protect those who worship and seek You in truth, justice, and hope. Archbishop Azad Marshall Church of pakistan

On the occasion of World Interfaith Harmony Week, being observed from 1 to 7 February 2026, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Pakistan and to the global community. This occasion reminds us of the shared values of peace, compassion, mutual respect, and coexistence, which form the foundation of all religions and belief systems. Pakistan is a society rich in religious, cultural, linguistic, and ethnic diversity. Our Constitution guarantees religious freedom and equal rights to all citizens, regardless of religion or belief. These principles reflect the vision of the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who emphasized tolerance, unity, and harmony as the cornerstones of the Pakistani nation. World Interfaith Harmony Week provides us with an important opportunity to renew our collective commitment to these noble values. Interfaith understanding is directly connected to the everyday lives of ordinary citizens. Where harmony prevails, children go to school without fear, places of worship remain safe and open, neighborhoods thrive in mutual trust, and dignified livelihoods are secured and sustained. In contrast, intolerance and division disrupt social life, place negative pressure on local economies, and weaken the sense of security upon which families depend. Therefore, promoting respect and dialogue among religions is not an abstract ideal but a practical necessity for social stability and well-being. In this era marked by conflict, division, and rising intolerance, interfaith engagement has become more important than ever. Meaningful connections, education, and dialogue among followers of different faiths are essential to address prejudice and misunderstanding. Beyond its moral significance, interfaith harmony is fundamental to social cohesion, sustainable peace, and shared development. Christianity teaches justice, mercy, and peace, and calls its followers to live in harmony with all people while honoring human dignity. Values such as compassion, kindness, and tolerance are common to all religious traditions and remind us that our shared humanity is far stronger than our differences. By rejecting all forms of extremism and promoting mutual understanding, we can strengthen trust and unity within our societies. The Church of Pakistan warmly commends the Chief of Defence Forces for his gracious engagement with Church leaders and for the symbolic presentation of a shield bearing inscriptions from the Holy Qur’an and the Holy Bible. This meaningful gesture reflects deep respect for religious diversity and conveys a powerful message of unity, mutual reverence, and shared national responsibility for peace and harmony. The Church of Pakistan also appreciates the leadership of the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, for approving the establishment of the Paigham-e-Aman Committee, comprising representatives of all faiths. The Church further acknowledges the role of Maulana Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi, Convener of the Paigham-e-Aman Committee, and commends the collective efforts of the Peace Committee of scholars and religious leaders whose guidance, wisdom, and cooperation continue to strengthen interfaith harmony and national unity. I commend the efforts of religious leaders, scholars, educators, civil society organizations, and young people who are working to promote dialogue and harmony among communities. Their contributions are vital in fostering respect, countering hatred, and guiding future generations to see diversity as a source of strength. On this occasion, let us renew our commitment to safeguarding the values of interfaith harmony, upholding the rights of minorities, and working together for a peaceful world. May this week inspire us toward meaningful action, informed dialogue, and mutual respect. The Pakistani nation remains committed, at both national and international levels, to promoting interfaith harmony and playing a constructive role in global peace.

@anwaar_kakar Ours too, and we love your scenic view of Quetta

My beautiful Quetta

History and Scripture together assure us of this unshakeable truth: empires rise and fall, but the Church of Jesus Christ endures. Borders change and regimes shift, yet the Kingdom of God advances quietly, faithfully, and irresistibly. The light of Christ has not dimmed—and it will not be overcome. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). May the God who has faithfully sustained His Church through every age grant peace to Iran, courage to its believers, and renewed commitment to Christians everywhere to stand together in hope, prayer, and love.

Let’s all be praying for the people of Iran—especially for the many Iranian Christians among them. These are courageous men and women standing up at great personal cost. It’s worth remembering that the Iranian regime fears its own people more than any foreign power. That tells you something. Iran is not just a headline or a political talking point. It is an ancient civilization, a biblically significant land, tragically hijacked by terrorists in 1979. But God is not finished with the people of Iran. Let’s pray for freedom, for protection, and for the Gospel to continue spreading—even in the darkest places. God often does His greatest work when oppression thinks it has the final word.”

History and Scripture together assure us of this unshakeable truth: empires rise and fall, but the Church of Jesus Christ endures. Borders change and regimes shift, yet the Kingdom of God advances quietly, faithfully, and irresistibly. The light of Christ has not dimmed—and it will not be overcome. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). May the God who has faithfully sustained His Church through every age grant peace to Iran, courage to its believers, and renewed commitment to Christians everywhere to stand together in hope, prayer, and love.

History and Scripture together assure us of this unshakeable truth: empires rise and fall, but the Church of Jesus Christ endures. Borders change and regimes shift, yet the Kingdom of God advances quietly, faithfully, and irresistibly. The light of Christ has not dimmed—and it will not be overcome. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). May the God who has faithfully sustained His Church through every age grant peace to Iran, courage to its believers, and renewed commitment to Christians everywhere to stand together in hope, prayer, and love. Arcbishop Azad Marshall Last Anglican Bishop in Iran 2004-2016

The United States supports the brave people of Iran

@MaryamNSharif Well done ma’am Blessings on you and your team

@MaryamNSharif H E the Chief Minister Sahiba Your educational innovation is admirable. God bless you and continue to use you to bless Pakistan in 2026!

Divisional Public School, Wazirabad.

On January 02, 2025 I was honored to host the Interfaith Christmas & New Year Milan (Get Together) Party in Lahore—an inspiring expression of unity, peace, and national harmony. Participation of national leadership, public recognition of Christmas, progress on human rights, and joint prayers under 🇵🇰’s flag reaffirm our shared commitment to tolerance, coexistence, and an inclusive Pakistan for all faiths.

Lesley and I write to convey our sincere appreciation to HE Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Chief Minister Punjab on behalf of the Church of Pakistan and the wider Christian community, for the manner in which the 2025 Christmas celebrations were organised across Punjab under your leadership. The celebrations, which officially commenced on 14 December 2025 as a twelve-day programme under the Human Rights and Minorities Affairs Department, were a commendable expression of interfaith harmony and inclusive governance. The range of activities—beginning with the 8-kilometre Christmas rally on Mall Road, the Interfaith Cycling Heritage Ride, the Christmas cake-cutting ceremonies, and the installation of Pakistan’s tallest Christmas tree at Liberty Chowk—sent a powerful message of unity and shared national belonging. The announcement of a one-month bonus for Christian employees of the Alhamra Arts Council was a thoughtful and practical gesture of recognition. We are particularly grateful for your personal presence at the Christmas Celebrations at Cathedral Church, Lahore, where you joined the congregation, participated in the cake-cutting ceremony, distributed Christmas cards and grants, and reaffirmed your government’s commitment to the protection and dignity of minority communities. Your affirmation that “minorities are our crown” was deeply encouraging and was clearly reflected in both policy and action. Such leadership strengthens trust, promotes harmony, and contributes to a more inclusive Punjab for all citizens. Please accept our gratitude, prayers, and best wishes as you continue to serve the people of Punjab.

On the death anniversary of Benazir Bhutto, we remember her with solemn respect and offer heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, and all who continue to mourn her loss. Her life and leadership left a lasting imprint on Pakistan’s political history, and her sacrifice remains a poignant reminder of the cost borne in the pursuit of democratic ideals. May her memory endure as a call to peace, justice, and reconciliation.

The Christian community of Pakistan warmly welcomes and deeply appreciates the gracious presence of the Respected Field Marshal at the Christmas celebrations on the evening of 25 December in Rawalpindi. His decision to stand in fellowship with the Christian faithful on Christmas Eve is a meaningful gesture of solidarity, reassurance, and national unity. We are grateful to the Field Marshal for extending heartfelt Christmas greetings and for affirming his commitment to peace, harmony, and prosperity for all citizens of Pakistan. His reflections on the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah—rooted in equality, freedom, and religious tolerance—resonate strongly with the Christian community and reaffirm our shared constitutional values. The acknowledgment of the historic and ongoing contributions of Pakistani Christians to national development and security, including their distinguished service in the Pakistan Armed Forces across generations, is deeply encouraging. It affirms that Christians have stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow Pakistanis in the defence, building, and service of our beloved country. We are particularly thankful for the Field Marshal’s clear emphasis on interfaith harmony, mutual respect, and unity, and for reiterating that Pakistan’s strength lies in its diversity and equal opportunities for all, beyond distinctions of religion, ethnicity, caste, or creed. His reaffirmation of the Pakistan Armed Forces’ commitment to upholding the dignity, security, and equal rights of all citizens, as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan, is a source of confidence and hope. On this sacred occasion of Christmas, we thank the Respected Field Marshal for standing with the Christian community in the spirit of peace and goodwill. We pray for God’s wisdom, protection, and strength upon him and upon all members of the Pakistan Armed Forces as they continue to serve the nation with honour and dedication. May this Christmas message of unity further strengthen interfaith harmony and national cohesion, and may Pakistan continue to move forward in peace, justice, and mutual respect for all its citizens.

#ISPR Rawalpindi, 25 December, 2025 Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, #COAS & CDF, attended the Christmas celebrations at Christ Church in Rawalpindi, #Pakistan, joining the Christian community in commemorating the joyous occasion. He extended heartfelt Christmas greetings and best wishes for peace, harmony and prosperity to the community. Paying tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Field Marshal highlighted the Founder's vision of equality, freedom and religious tolerance, emphasizing the protection of minority rights as a cornerstone of Pakistan's ideology. Interacting with the congregation, Field Marshal highlighted the enduring contributions of Pakistani Christians to national development and security, including their proud and distinguished service in the Pakistan Armed Forces across generations. He also stressed upon the importance of interfaith harmony, mutual respect and unity, stating that Pakistan's strength lies in its diversity, equal opportunities and shared constitutional values beyond religion, ethnicity, caste and creed. The COAS & CDF reaffirmed Pakistan Armed Forces' commitment to upholding the dignity, security and equal rights of all citizens, as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan. The Christian community leaders expressed gratitude for the Field Marshal’s visit, acknowledging Pakistan Armed Forces’ role for protection of homeland, inclusivity, religious harmony, and national unity in Pakistan.

The Christian community of Pakistan warmly welcomes and deeply appreciates the gracious presence of the Respected Field Marshal at the Christmas celebrations on the evening of 25 December in Rawalpindi. His decision to stand in fellowship with the Christian faithful on Christmas Eve is a meaningful gesture of solidarity, reassurance, and national unity. We are grateful to the Field Marshal for extending heartfelt Christmas greetings and for affirming his commitment to peace, harmony, and prosperity for all citizens of Pakistan. His reflections on the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah—rooted in equality, freedom, and religious tolerance—resonate strongly with the Christian community and reaffirm our shared constitutional values. The acknowledgment of the historic and ongoing contributions of Pakistani Christians to national development and security, including their distinguished service in the Pakistan Armed Forces across generations, is deeply encouraging. It affirms that Christians have stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow Pakistanis in the defence, building, and service of our beloved country. We are particularly thankful for the Field Marshal’s clear emphasis on interfaith harmony, mutual respect, and unity, and for reiterating that Pakistan’s strength lies in its diversity and equal opportunities for all, beyond distinctions of religion, ethnicity, caste, or creed. His reaffirmation of the Pakistan Armed Forces’ commitment to upholding the dignity, security, and equal rights of all citizens, as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan, is a source of confidence and hope. May this Christmas message of unity further strengthen interfaith harmony and national cohesion, and may Pakistan continue to move forward in peace, justice, and mutual respect for all its citizens. Archbishop Azad Marshall President Church of Pakistan

⸻ Your Excellency Field Marshal General Asim Munir Sahib, On the blessed occasion of Christmas, I convey to you my warm greetings and best wishes, along with those of the Christian community of Pakistan. Christmas is a season of peace, hope, and goodwill, and it reminds us of the values of service, sacrifice, and commitment to the common good. The Christian community of Pakistan holds deep respect for the Pakistan Army as our army—an institution that stands in service of the nation, safeguards its sovereignty, and works for peace and stability. We remain grateful for the role played by the Pakistan Army in protecting all citizens without distinction and in upholding national unity. Please be assured of our prayers for you, for the leadership of the Armed Forces, and for the continued peace, security, and prosperity of our beloved country. With Christmas greetings and prayers for the New Year ahead. Respectfully, ++Azad Marshall Moderator, President Bishop Church of Pakistan

#ISPR آئی ایس پی آر راولپنڈی ، 24 دسمبر 2025: فیلڈ مارشل سید عاصم منیر، نشان امتیاز(ملٹری) ،ہلال جرات، چیف آف آرمی سٹاف و چیف آف ڈیفنس فورسز کی زیر صدارت 273ویں کور کمانڈرز کانفرنس #Pakistan #COAS #AsimMunir فورم نے مسلح افواج، قانون نافذ کرنے والے اداروں اور دہشت گردی کے حالیہ واقعات میں شہید ہونے والے معصوم شہریوں کے ایصالِ ثواب کے لیے فاتحہ خوانی کی فورم کا حالیہ دہشت گردی کے واقعات میں اپنی جانوں کا نذرانہ پیش کرنے والوں اور غیر ملکی ایماء پر دہشتگردی کے فروغ کے خلاف مادر وطن کا دفاع کرنے والوں کو خراج عقیدت آرمی چیف و چیف آف ڈیفنس فورسز نے پاکستان کی مسلح افواج کی غیر متزلزل جرات، پیشہ ورانہ مہارت اور قربانیوں کو زبردست خراجِ تحسین پیش کیا آرمی چیف و چیف آف ڈیفنس فورسز نے حالیہ مہینوں میں ملک بھر میں انٹیلی جنس پر مبنی انسداد دہشت گردی کی کارروائیوں میں افواج ِ پاکستان کی پُرعزم کاوشوں کوسراہا “حکومت اور پاک فوج کی مشترکہ کوششوں اور پاکستانی عوام کی ثابت قدم حمایت کے باعث ہمارا ملک بتدریج مگر یقینی طور پر استحکام، وسیع تر مواقع اور عزت ووقار کی طرف بڑھ رہا ہے” - فیلڈ مارشل   فورم نے اندرونی و بیرونی سلامتی کی صورتحال کا جامع جائزہ لیتے ہوئے ملک کو درپیش خطرات اور آپریشنل تیاریوں پر زور دیا شرکاء کانفرنس نے اس بات کا اعادہ کیا کہ؛ بھارتی سرپرستی میں تمام دہشتگردوں ، ان کے سہولت کاروں اور معاونین کے ساتھ فیصلہ کن اور بغیر کسی رعایت کے نمٹا جائے گا فورم نے دہشت گردی، جرائم اور سیاسی مفادات کے درمیان گٹھ جوڑ کو یکسر مسترد کر دیا “قومی یکجہتی، سلامتی اور استحکام کو نقصان پہنچانے کی کسی کو اجازت نہیں دی جائے گی، چاہے وو عناصر سیاسی ہوں یا کوئی بھی” ۔ فورم “مسلح افواج اور پاکستان کی عوام کے درمیان تفرقہ پیدا کرنے کی کسی کو ہرگز اجازت نہیں” ، *فورم* فورم نے بلوچستان حکومت کے خصوصی ترقیاتی اقدامات کو سراہا، جو مقامی سطح پر عوام کو بااختیار بنانے اور سماجی روابط کے ذریعے گورننس سے جڑے دہشت گردی کے عوامل کا خاتمہ کرتے ہیں شرکاء کانفرنس نے پائیدار امن اور استحکام کو یقینی بنانے کے لیے قومی ایکشن پلان کے مطابق دیگر علاقوں میں بھی اسی طرز کے عوامی اقدامات کی ضرورت پر زور دیا فورم نے کشمیری عوام کے حق خودارادیت اور ان کی جائز جدوجہد کے لیے پاکستان کی ثابت قدمی کا اعادہ کیا شرکاء کانفرنس نے مسئلہ فلسطین پر پاکستان کے اصولی موقف کی بھی توثیق کی “غزہ میں فوری اور مستقل جنگ بندی، بلا روک ٹوک انسانی رسائی اور فلسطینی ریاست کے لیے ایک قابل اعتماد راستے کا مطالبہ” - شرکاء کانفرنس کانفرنس کے اختتام پر آرمی چیف و چیف آف ڈیفنس فورسز نے کمانڈرز کو آپریشنل تیاری، نظم و ضبط، تربیت، جسمانی فٹنس، نئی جدتیں اور میدان جنگ میں پیشہ ورانہ مہارت کے اعلیٰ ترین معیار کو برقرار رکھنے کی ہدایت کی آرمی چیف و چیف آف ڈیفنس فورسز نے پاک فوج کی قومی خودمختاری اور علاقائی سالمیت کا مستقل تحفظ کرتے ہوئے "کنونشنل اور سب کنونشنل "سے لے کر ہائبرڈ اور غیر متناسب چیلنجز تک کے خطرات کا مؤثر طریقے سے مقابلہ کرنے کی صلاحیت پر مکمل اعتماد کا اظہار کیا

⸻ Your Excellency Field Marshal General Asim Munir Sahib, On the blessed occasion of Christmas, I convey to you my warm greetings and best wishes, along with those of the Christian community of Pakistan. Christmas is a season of peace, hope, and goodwill, and it reminds us of the values of service, sacrifice, and commitment to the common good. The Christian community of Pakistan holds deep respect for the Pakistan Army as our army—an institution that stands in service of the nation, safeguards its sovereignty, and works for peace and stability. We remain grateful for the role played by the Pakistan Army in protecting all citizens without distinction and in upholding national unity. Please be assured of our prayers for you, for the leadership of the Armed Forces, and for the continued peace, security, and prosperity of our beloved country. With Christmas greetings and prayers for the New Year ahead. Respectfully, ++Azad Marshall Moderator, President Bishop, Church of Pakistan

@tristan_azbej @HungaryHelps @sahotra_joel @JimGarlow Dear Tristan, Thank you for standing with the Christians of Jaranwala in the time of their persecution. Hungry helps is an amazing programme serving persecuted church globally. Our prayers are with you!

3️⃣ In Jaranwala, Pakistan, where a Christian community suffered brutal attacks in 2023, I witnessed both harrowing stories and unwavering faith. Solidarity, resilience, and hope define our mission to stand with persecuted communities everywhere. ✝️🤝 #recap2025 @hungaryhelps

1️⃣ March 2025 | Year in Review In March, I visited Pakistan to launch a @HungaryHelps supported entrepreneurship training for Christian & other minority women — giving practical skills, confidence, and community support so they can move from exclusion to economic self-reliance.

It was a great joy to attend the Christmas Program and to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas with the Christian community in Islamabad. I was pleased to meet HE Ms. Jane Marriott, British High Commissioner to Pakistan and other respected members of the diplomatic community, and to extend warm Christmas greetings to the ICF, appreciating their fellowship and commitment. I am deeply thankful to Captain and Mrs. Babar for graciously hosting this wonderful gathering, which brought together members of Islamabad’s Christian civil, military, and diplomatic community. Such occasions strengthen unity, understanding, and the bonds of peace. I especially commend and appreciate all the children who beautifully presented Christmas carols and the Nativity scenes. Their joyful participation reflected the hope, love, and message of Christ’s birth. May the peace, joy, and blessings of Christmas be with you all.