The Church of Pakistan is facing an escalating crisis as disputes over the legitimacy of its governing bodies and election processes deepen. The latest controversy surrounds the postponed election of the Co-adjutor Bishop for the Diocese of Peshawar, originally scheduled for January 20, 2025. The postponement follows claims by the Bishop of Peshawar, Rt. Rev. Humphrey S. Peters, that the Church of Pakistan Synod has become unconstitutional since its term expired in June 2024.
A Growing Power Struggle
The conflict within the Church of Pakistan has intensified, with allegations of unconstitutional actions and power struggles surfacing across multiple dioceses. The Lahore Diocese has already been embroiled in similar disputes, where several bishops have contested the legitimacy of Bishop Nadeem Kamran, arguing that he bypassed the Synod's consent in violation of the Church of Pakistan Election Rules 2017. Now, the Peshawar Diocese is facing the same issue, as Bishop Peters demands recognition of Bishop Nadeem as the legitimate Bishop of the Church of Pakistan, a move opposed by the majority of bishops who fear it will set a precedent for further unlawful elections and appointments.
These internal conflicts have severely damaged the Church’s credibility, with many believing that such irregularities have caused the institution to lose respect among Pakistani Christians. Critics argue that it is imperative to stop these unconstitutional practices to restore the Church’s reputation both locally and internationally.
Synod’s Executive Committee Intervenes
The Executive Committee of the Synod, Church of Pakistan, convened a meeting at 17-Waris Road, Lahore, under the chairmanship of The Most Rev. Dr. Azad Marshall, Moderator/President Bishop of the Synod. The meeting addressed concerns over the election process in the Peshawar Diocese.
Key Developments:
- Mr. Shahzad Khurram, General Secretary of the Synod, highlighted procedural flaws in the election process initiated by the Diocese of Peshawar, including a lack of consultation with the Synod.
- The Synod accused Bishop Peters of violating the Constitution and the Bishop Election Rules 2007.
Following these discussions, the committee passed several resolutions:
- Ensuring Compliance with Election Rules: The election must strictly adhere to the Constitution and the Bishop Election Rules 2007, and be conducted under the chairmanship of the Synod Moderator.
- Formation of a Coordination Committee: A special committee was established to oversee the election, including:
- Rt. Rev. Leo Roderick Paul (Convener)
- Rt. Rev. Fredrick John
- Rt. Rev. Aleem Anwar
- Mr. Shahzad Khurram (General Secretary)
- Zaheer Abbas (Coordinator)
- Consequences of Unilateral Actions: Any election conducted without the Synod’s involvement will be declared unconstitutional and void.
- Disciplinary Actions: Those involved in unauthorized election processes could face revocation of their positions and membership.
- Synod-Led Election Process: The Moderator and General Secretary were authorized to conduct the election following the 2007 rules.
Bishop Peters Challenges the Synod
Bishop Peters has strongly opposed the Synod’s involvement, arguing that its constitutional tenure expired in June 2024 and that it no longer holds any legitimate authority. He compared the situation to Pakistan’s national and provincial assemblies, which transition into interim setups after their constitutional terms end.
“The Synod and its executive committees have been demolished after the completion of their tenure as per the constitution. The current Synod setup is unconstitutional and cannot intervene in any matter until it is restored through a constitutional process,” Bishop Peters stated.
He accused the defunct Synod of causing disorder across multiple dioceses, citing past incidents in Raiwind, Faisalabad, Karachi, and Lahore, where he claimed the Synod’s interference led to unconstitutional elections and neglect.
Calls for Reconciliation and Reform
Bishop Peters has called for an end to Synod-led extensions for bishops and has demanded recognition of the Lahore Diocese in all church processes. He dismissed accusations that he seeks an extension for his own tenure, emphasizing the need for younger bishops to take up leadership roles.
“The Church of Pakistan must now focus on unity, adherence to constitutional guidelines, and reconciliation,” he stated, urging the establishment of a Reconciliation and Inquiry Committee.
The Road Ahead
With the Church of Pakistan embroiled in deepening internal conflicts, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether reconciliation is possible or if further divisions will destabilize the Church. Many voices within the Christian community in Pakistan are calling for adherence to the Constitution and biblical teachings to restore the Church’s standing.
As the controversy unfolds, the key question remains: Will the Church of Pakistan prioritize unity and legitimacy, or will the power struggles continue to erode its credibility?