Dr Azad Marshall, Moderator and President Bishop of the Church of Pakistan, launched his new guide on the observance of Holy Lent throughout a landmark Holy Communion Service at Holy Trinity Church in Dubai on February 23, 2025. The occasion drew senior leaders from throughout the Anglican Communion, marking a uncommon convergence of ecclesiastical authority.
Bishop Marshall presided over the communion alongside Archbishop Hosam Naoum, Primate of the Episcopal Church of Jerusalem and the Center East, and Bishop Sean Semple of the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf. Their participation underscored the rising collaboration between completely different Anglican branches within the area.
The guide tackles the religious disciplines of Lent – prayer, fasting, and almsgiving – explaining how these practices construct humility, strengthen religion, and deepen connection to Christ. Marshall crafted the work as each theological exploration and sensible information, encouraging a transformative strategy to the season.
“I encourage you to learn this guide and stroll collectively in unity throughout this Lenten journey,” urged Archbishop Naoum throughout the service. He described the launch as “a privilege” whereas addressing the congregation.
Bishop Semple echoed this endorsement, calling the publication “a beautiful information to journeying via Lent and deepening our religion.” He expressed hope that readers would “develop in religion and perceive God’s name extra clearly” via participating with the textual content.
Rev Rufus Khokhar, Presbyter In control of the Urdu-Talking Congregation at Holy Trinity, welcomed the distinguished guests to the Dubai church. Different clergy in attendance included Rev Prem Mitra, Chaplain of Dubai Chaplaincy; Rev Shahzad Gill, Senior Chaplain to the President Bishop of the Church of Pakistan; Rev Javed M. Inayat, Presbyter Incharge of the Urdu-Talking Parish of the Evangelical Church in Al Ain; and Rev Fernandus Wilson with Mrs Lesley Marshall.
Bishop Marshall mirrored on the historic context of the gathering, referencing earlier visits by Anglican leaders to the area. “Right this moment is a joyful and historic event as we three bishops come collectively on this Holy Communion Service,” he informed these assembled.
The native congregation expressed appreciation for the presence of church leaders from completely different traditions, viewing the service as a milestone of their religion journey.
Past its devotional content material, Marshall’s guide serves as a seasonal information getting ready readers for Easter. By way of scriptural evaluation and private perception, the textual content reframes Lent as a time of hope and renewal slightly than austerity alone.
Archbishop Naoum summarised the day’s significance: “Right this moment, we had a beautiful service, worshipped collectively, broke bread collectively, and shared the Phrase of God.” He prolonged greetings from Jerusalem to these current.
The launch of Marshall’s guide positions it as a contribution to Anglican Lenten literature whereas highlighting the Church of Pakistan’s theological voice inside the broader communion.
