A year on…: Peace walk held in memory of All Saints Church blasts’ victims

Prayers, candlelit vigil held Saturday night for those killed in blasts across K-P.

PESHAWAR: Christians in the city held a peace walk in Kohati after Sunday services at All Saints Church. The walk was held in the memory of the 106 who lost their lives in the twin blasts at the church shortly after Sunday service. The attack is still considered to be the deadliest one targeting Christians.

The event had been organised by Strive for Sustainable Peace and Development Organisation (SSPDO) and Christian Youth Volunteers Network.



“We believe the sacrifices made by innocent people will not go in vain and we pray for a peaceful country free of violence, terrorism and intolerance,” said Jamshed Thomas, the executive director of SSPDO.

“We condemn the terrorist attacks on churches, mosques, temples and gurdwaras and ask the government to provide security to places of worship for the protection of innocent people.” Religious tolerance, unity and efforts to help vulnerable segments of society can bring peace and prosperity in the country, added Thomas.

During the walk, both children and adults held placards and posters inscribed with slogans of peace and harmony. Participants said there remains a dire need for politicians to build consensus on issues related to national security and harmony among religious and ethnic groups.

“We don’t want bloodsheds in our country,” said Joseph, an elder who participated in the walk and lost his family members in the All Saints Church blasts. “We need nothing but peace and security in our land.”

At a candlelit vigil held in Nishtar Hall on Saturday night, special prayers were offered for victims of the blasts last year. Those who lost their lives in various militant activities across the province were also remembered and prayed for.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 15^th, 2014.