January 15, 2026 Islamabad, Pakistan
— In a profound expression of pastoral care and solidarity following the tragic gas cylinder explosion that claimed several lives at a wedding celebration in Islamabad’s Sector G-7/2 on 11 January 2026, a delegation of prominent Christian leaders and community representatives visited the bereaved family to offer condolences, prayers and solidarity.
The delegation was led by Archbishop Dr Azad Marshall, Moderator/President Bishop of the Church of Pakistan, accompanied by Mr Anthony Naveed, Deputy Speaker of the Sindh Assembly; Mr Samuel Payara, Chairman of the IMRF (Implementation of Minority Rights Forum); Revd Shahzad Gill, Senior Chaplain to the Archbishop; and other local community leaders.
During the solemn visit, Archbishop Dr Azad Marshall expressed profound sorrow over the devastating incident that turned a day of joy into grief. He extended the condolences of the Church of Pakistan to the affected family and affirmed that the Christian community stands united with them in this difficult time.
“We are with you in this difficult time,” the Archbishop said, offering words of comfort and encouragement to the mourning relatives. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones. May God grant you peace and comfort.”
Before departing, Archbishop Marshall led a prayer for the bereaved family, asking for strength, healing for the injured, and divine comfort for all those affected by the tragedy.
The gas cylinder explosion, which occurred during a wedding gathering, resulted in multiple fatalities, including the bride and groom, and left several others injured. Rescue and emergency operations were carried out promptly, with authorities launching investigations into the cause of the blast.
