On May 6, 2024, the Catholic
Church in Sahiwal marked the 26th anniversary of Bishop John Joseph, a pivotal
figure in the Christian community of Pakistan. The memorial service drew a
large congregation, reflecting the deep respect and reverence held for Bishop
Joseph’s enduring legacy.
Throughout the service, tributes
were paid to Bishop Joseph's selfless contributions to his community. His
life's work, characterized by his sacrifice in Sahiwal, was remembered by many
who continue to be inspired by his commitment to humanity and justice.
Father Nadeem Joseph, the Parish
Priest of the Catholic Church in Sahiwal, shared heartfelt reflections on
Bishop Joseph's life and mission. "Bishop John Joseph was not only a
courageous leader but also a beacon of hope who dedicated his life to alleviating
human suffering," Father Nadeem remarked. He highlighted Bishop Joseph's
relentless advocacy for the oppressed and his efforts to uphold the dignity of
the underprivileged as guided by Christian teachings.
Bishop John Joseph's biography
resonates with his profound influence. Born on November 15, 1932, in Khushpur,
Pakistan, he pursued his early education at St. Thomas School. His spiritual
journey led him from the Minor Seminary in Quetta to the Major Seminary in
Karachi, where he immersed himself in theology and philosophy. Ordained as a
priest on January 18, 1960, in Faisalabad, then called Lyallpur, he was the
first Punjabi priest of his time, a title that carried great honour.
His academic pursuits took him to
Rome, Italy, where he earned a PhD in theology, after which he returned to
Pakistan to serve as the Dean of Studies at Christ the King Seminary in
Karachi. On January 9, 1984, he was appointed the Bishop of Faisalabad, marking
another first as the Punjabi Bishop.
Bishop Joseph was deeply engaged
in literary circles, frequently interacting with prominent Urdu poets and
writers, and actively promoting Urdu literature. His dedication extended beyond
cultural efforts; he was fiercely committed to the education of Christian
youth, ensuring that many received the financial support needed to pursue
higher education abroad.
The tragic end to Bishop Joseph’s
life came on May 6, 1998, when he sacrificed himself in protest against the
blasphemy law, at the premises of the Sessions Court in Sahiwal. This act of
profound sacrifice came after the controversial conviction of Ayub Masih, a
Christian man accused under Pakistan's blasphemy laws. Bishop Joseph's death
underscored his unyielding stance against injustice and his commitment to the
Christian community in Pakistan.
On this 26th anniversary, the
community not only remembers a leader but renews a collective commitment to
Bishop Joseph’s principles of equality, justice, and human rights. The legacy
of Bishop John Joseph continues to inspire both reflection and action within
the community and beyond.
