In total over half a million Catholics took part around the country, representing a huge proportion of the total Catholic population of the Islamic Republic, says parish priest in Karachi.

Lahore seminary rector sees increase in vocations to the priesthood and religious life as “a sign of God's blessing” who is “always close to his people.”

Pope appeals to Pakistan's civil authorities and social groupings to restore security and peace especially to the most vulnerable religious minorities.

“That this deplorable attack on a child was triggered by a simple profession of faith is deeply worrying.”

"Justice is increasingly in the hands of the extremists" Pakistani lawyer warns.

"Pakistani Christians are already persecuted and feel very vulnerable after so many false blasphemy cases against them.”

Dialogue aimed at helping faiths to draw closer and eliminate fear and suspicion.