Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, during his visit to Pakistan, participated in a Sunday mass at Peshawar's All Saints Church and delivered a message of peace and religious harmony, especially after the Russian attack on Ukraine, reported Dawn.

He laid the foundation stone of the peace and interfaith reconciliation centre at the church's Kohati Gate.

Welby, who is on a three-day visit to Pakistan, tweeted: "In our troubled and hurting world, it’s a privilege to be in Pakistan to show solidarity with our sisters and brothers in the Church of Pakistan. Their courage and faithfulness are a blessing and inspiration. Please pray for them."

As per the report, a large number of members from the Christian community, including priests of different churches attended the Sunday mass. The guests were offered traditional gifts. Pakistan Council of World Religions Faith Friends representatives headed by Qari Rohullah Madani were also present on the occasion.

The Archbishop of Canterbury met with those from the Christian community, whose relatives were killed in acts of terrorism. He was accompanied by Special Representative of Prime Minister for Interfaith Harmony and Middle East Hafiz Mohammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi and President of Church of Pakistan Bishop Azad Marshal, according to the report.

All Saints Church officials welcomed the guests and briefed them about the twin-bombing at the church's Kohati Gate that took place on September 22, 2013 which claimed at least 80 lives and wounded more than 100. The guests were also informed about the murder of the Chamkani Church priest William Siraj on January 31, 2022.

Meanwhile, strict security measures were in place across the city to avert any untoward incident. The government deployed a large number of army adn police personnel on City Circular Road and Kohati area.

Talking about Welby's visit, All Saints Church Pastor Shahzad Murad said he visited Peshawar to express solidarity with the families of those killed in different incidents of terrorism.