Srinagar, Dec 23: Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday e-inaugurated the 125-year-old St. Luke’s Church, one of the oldest in Kashmir, at Dalgate in the south-western slope of Shankaracharya Hills in Srinagar. The centenarian Church had remained shut for about 30 years due to militancy.
Under the Srinagar smart project scheme authorities in Jammu and Kashmir started renovating the church about a month ago and it has been restored to its original shape and texture.
Pastor Eric from the Church of North India (CN) led the prayers on Wednesday — for the first time in 30 years.
Members of an overjoyed Christian community called the church reopening “a dream come true”.
The foundation stone erected on the wall of the Church by two Britons “To The Glory of God” and “As a witness to Kashmir” was dedicated by the Bishop of Lahore on September 12, 1896.
“The St Luke’s church is a unique symbol of J&K’s composite culture. We must strengthen the values of brotherhood, peace and selfless service,” Sinha tweeted.
“Congratulations to all the citizens, especially our Christian brothers and sisters,” he said.
