Pakistan: Local government supports restoration of St Patrick's Cathedral, Karachi

St Patrick's Cathedral, Karachi

Source: Fides

St Patrick's Cathedral was the first church built in Karachi. The 175 year-old building, is currently undergoing a three-year restoration project which is being supported by the government of Sindh Province.

During a meeting with provincial Prime Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Rector Fr Mario Rodrigues said: "This year we celebrate the platinum jubilee of the Cathedral. The building is well known for its Gothic Renaissance architecture, and can accommodate up to 1500 people. The historical and ancient architectural works of the building, particularly those in stone, the stained glass windows and the wooden ones date back almost 146 years ago."

Various Bible scenes are depicted on the windows of the Cathedral, including the sacrifice of Isaac, the Annunciation, the Nativity of Jesus, the presentation of Jesus in the temple, the flight of the Holy Family to Egypt and the Passion of Jesus.

"The building of the Cathedral is a cultural heritage that cannot be totally demolished and rebuilt; we must preserve and protect our history. This is the reason why the project is financially demanding," said Fr Mario Rodrigues after the meeting with Ali Shah.

Prime Minister Sindh, who studied at the St Patrick's High School, hailed the Catholic Church's good works within the province, especially in providing educational and health services.

In April, the fundraising team of this project had organized a 'Food and Music Festival'.

There are only about 166,000 Catholics in Karachi (as of 2013) out of a population of more than 18 million, but the Catholic Church contributes much to the welfare of the country through schools, hospitals and other institutions.