Pakistani priest’s short stories in Punjabi to promote universal Christian values
(January 13, 2013) A Catholic priest in Pakistan has published a volume of short
stories in Punjabi language that bring out the Christian doctrine, teaching the common
good. Fr. Mukhtar Alam’s book, "Bay Nooran Chon Noor" was recently presented at the
John Joseph Hall, next to the Faisalabad Catholic Cathedral, in the presence of authors,
poets, priests, catechists, nuns, teachers and representatives of civil society.
Fr. Alam’s volume are a collection of short stories that his mother used to narrate
in his childhood. According to Fr. Aftab James Paul, director of the Faisalabad diocesan
Commission for Interreligious Dialogue, the volume "Bay Nooran Chon Noor" has been
widely lauded by critics and the public because it contains stories that "promote
the teachings" of the Church. Vicar general of Faisalabad, Fr. Khalid Rasheed Asi
said that the short stories criticize bad behaviour in society and promote "correct
choices". The metaphoric animal stories teach us how to live "in peace and free from
violence and discrimination," he added. The author, Fr. Alam hopes that "readers will
respect diversity and will bring positive changes in the ways and attitudes" toward
all mankind, particularly "marginalized groups".