There are different ways of creating a family climate in the world and sometimes they can work beyond prejudices. For example, in Pakistan, where "the members of the family choose one’s partner for marriage and we have often seen that it is an advantage if the families of origin are involved in the construction of the couple". This is the opinion of Mgr. Rufin Anthony, Bishop of Islamabad - Rawalpindi, whom SIR met in Milan at the 7th World Meeting of the Families which officially opened on May 30th (click here[>>]). The bishop talks about a reality which is very different from that of Europe and North America, but "we are here to listen and learn - he says - and we believe that others too can learn something from us". Mgr. Anthony points out that, "in any case, the families in Pakistan are very united, there is much respect and fidelity between husband and wife. What risks of undermining family life is social change: many people move to the cities, but they are not prepared”, and “there aren’t jobs for everyone”. Christians make up for only 3% of the population; the majority is Muslim. Christians enjoy religious freedom, but in society they are discriminated, especially in their working places, and "mixed marriages are discouraged".

01/06/2012 -