At a special luncheon hosted by Her Excellency Natalie A. Baker, Chargé d’Affaires of the United States, to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, Christian leaders gathered in Islamabad in a spirit of friendship, fellowship, and mutual respect — a gathering that blended historical celebration with a heartfelt call for peace.
Opening the occasion, The Most Reverend Dr. Azad Marshall, Moderator and President of the Church of Pakistan, expressed his appreciation for the gathering and extended congratulations to the people of the United States on this historic milestone.
“Thank you, Excellency Natalie A. Baker, Chargé d’Affaires, for hosting this luncheon to celebrate 250 years of the United States of America and for bringing together a distinguished group of Christian leaders.”
— Archbishop Dr Azad Marshall, Moderator/President, Church of Pakistan📌 Event at a Glance
A Personal Memory: Tehran, 1976
Archbishop Marshall brought a rare personal dimension to the occasion, reaching back fifty years to share a vivid memory from his own history. In 1976, as a young student, he attended the American Bicentennial celebrations in Tehran — a moment he recalled with warmth, describing the atmosphere as both memorable and significant.
With quiet reflection, he noted the remarkable journey that would follow: years later, he would be called to serve as Bishop of Iran — linking his own life story to the very city where he had once witnessed America celebrate its 200th year.
A 50-year arc: From a student attending the American Bicentennial in Tehran in 1976, to serving as Bishop of Iran, to speaking at the U.S. Embassy luncheon marking America’s 250th anniversary — Archbishop Marshall’s personal history mirrors five decades of American, Iranian, and Pakistani diplomatic and faith history.
On Diplomacy, Peace, and Shared Humanity
Reflecting on present-day international developments, Archbishop Marshall observed that while the United States and Iran continue to occupy significant attention in world affairs, there remain enduring human connections and shared aspirations that transcend politics — relationships built on faith, friendship, and mutual respect.
He expressed particular gratitude to God for the leadership of His Excellency Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir Ahmed, Chief of Defence Forces of Pakistan, acknowledging the significant role they have played in encouraging dialogue, promoting regional stability, and contributing to efforts that foster peace and understanding — a reference widely understood to include Pakistan’s mediation role in the recent U.S.–Iran peace process.
“While the United States and Iran continue to occupy significant attention in world affairs, there remain enduring human connections and shared aspirations that transcend politics — relationships built on faith, friendship, and mutual respect.”
— Archbishop Dr Azad MarshallDrawing upon the Christian vocation to be peacemakers, Archbishop Marshall expressed his hope that the future would be marked by greater understanding between nations and a renewed commitment to peace, reconciliation, and human dignity.
A Prayer for Two Nations and a Shared Future
Archbishop Marshall then led those gathered in prayer — a moment described by those present as both solemn and deeply moving. His prayer encompassed the full breadth of the occasion: gratitude for fellowship, acknowledgment of America’s 250-year journey, and an earnest call for wisdom and courage among those entrusted with leadership.
He gave thanks to Almighty God for the opportunity to come together in friendship and fellowship, and expressed gratitude for the hospitality of the United States Embassy and the leadership of Ms. Baker.
He gave thanks for the blessings bestowed upon the United States throughout its 250-year history and prayed for strengthened friendship between the peoples of the United States and Pakistan.
He prayed for wisdom for national leaders, success in efforts that promote dialogue and peace, courage for those engaged in reconciliation, and God’s blessing upon all present and the meal shared together.
A Meaningful Occasion for Faith and Diplomacy
The luncheon provided a meaningful opportunity for Christian leaders and diplomatic representatives to celebrate a significant historical milestone while reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, mutual understanding, and constructive international friendship.
In a region where faith and diplomacy often intersect in complex ways, this gathering represented a quiet but powerful affirmation: that shared humanity, expressed through worship, memory, and conversation across a table, remains one of the most durable foundations for international friendship.
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This is a special report by the Rooted in Unity editorial team. Source: Church of Pakistan Official. Rooted in Unity is a Houston, Texas–based initiative dedicated to dialogue, civic engagement, and principled advocacy across faith communities and national boundaries.