Provincial Minister Human Rights and Affairs of Minorities Khalil Tahir Sandhu has said that The Bahá'í Faith is the world’s newest independent Religion and Bahá'u'lláh (1817-1892) is the founder of the Baha’i Faith. He said that Bahá'u'lláh’s message is of peace and the Bahá'í Faith teaches the oneness of God, the unity of Humanity and the essential harmony of Religions. He said that Baha’is, worldwide, are working together and making humble endeavors to bring communities together for the betterment of the society at large, while preserving its diversity. He expressed these views while participating in event organized by Baha’i Community in Lahore and FACES Pakistan on 21st October, 2017 at Falettis Hotel Lahore. Dr. Ruhiyeh Muffedi, Member of Baha’i International Community, shared that Every contribution Baha’is make to the life of their society is aimed at fostering unity, which is eventually directed towards attaining the goal of Oneness of Humankind in this breaking world. Mr. Javaid William, President FACES Pakistan shared that this celebration embody the essence of “Unity in Diversity”, one of the prime teachings of the Baha’i Faith, by bringing together people from all religious and ethnical backgrounds in love and brotherhood. Ms. Elaine Alam, Secretary General FACES Pakistan, stated that only by maintaining peace, security and people’s solidarity among religious communities we can reduce poverty and achieve sustainable development in Pakistan. Mr. Khalil Tahir Sandhu appreciated the efforts of Baha’i community and FACES Pakistan for celebrating religious diversity in Pakistan and bringing all faiths together to promote the message of unity and religious tolerance. The minister said in his address that the Baha’is believes that humanity’s ultimate well-being is dependent upon its differences being transcended and its unity firmly established. “You are the fruits of one tree and the leaves of one branch”. Deal one with another with the utmost love and harmony, with friendliness and fellowship. He, who is the Daystar of Truth, beareth me witness! So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth,” he quoted Baha’u’llah as saying. He further stated that Peace and unity are the pivotal teachings of the Baha’i faith and the Baha’i community of Pakistan is a peace-loving community. Their contributions towards the betterment of individuals, society and the country are truly admirable. The Minister said that they have continually contributed to their society by collaborating with Government and Non-Government Organizations, along with members of all religions and communities in conducting literacy programs for rural areas, free medical camps and tree plantations, discourses with dignitaries and leaders of thought, promoting interaction amongst the youth of all communities and by actively participating in dialogues on religious coexistence. All over Pakistan, Bahá'ís are embracing the diversity of the entire population and are striving for a better future society by raising the capacity of community building amongst the masses. At the end of event a memorial shield presented by Minister HRMA from Faces of Pakistan and Baha’i Community.
