Jaranwala incident stands out as the most severe in Pakistan's history.

Up to this point, there have been 14 recorded instances of Christian persecution, with the Jaranwala incident standing out as the most severe in Pakistan's history. On August 16, 2023, a dark day unfolded for the Christian community in Jaranwala, located in the Faisalabad district of Punjab, Pakistan. Mob attacks destroyed over 26 churches and more than a hundred Christian households set ablaze. Countless individuals, including women, teenage girls, children, and the elderly, found themselves homeless and enduring harrowing times in the aftermath of these violent assaults. This organized persecution was executed by extremist Muslim groups.

In response, CFAM Canada, with the support of CFAM Pakistan, joined hands with their fellow Christians to seek justice and rebuild the churches and communities affected. On August 26, after receiving funds from Canada and conducting a thorough needs assessment in the area, the team decided to begin the process of reconstruction. Their efforts began with the restoration of churches and the provision of essential items such as Holy Bibles, worship books, and even musical instruments like Dice, Dholak, and Duff, which had been overlooked by others. On September 2, 2023, CFAM Pakistan embarked on their journey to Jaranwala.

The team assembled at their base at six in the morning, receiving a blessing from their chairman before setting off for Sheikhupura. They had made preparations for the following nine churches:

Calvary Church Chak no 240

Church of God Chak no 238

Presbyterian Church Chak no 126

K G M Church Chak no 126

Fresh Oil Church Asad Town

Amazing Grace Church Chak no 126 Sharowana

Calvary Church Chak no 61 GB Nora Colony

Pak Khuskhabri Church Chak no 61 GB Nora Colony

Saat Sangat Church Chak no 120 Maharanwala

Upon arriving at each church, the CFAM team consoled the pastors and victims, offering them Bibles, Worship books, and musical instruments. They collectively prayed for peace and prosperity in the lives of the Christian community.

Here are two stories that shed light on the harrowing events in these communities:

Calvary Church: Located in Chak no 240, just four kilometres from Jaranwala city, Calvary Church is led by Pastor Phillips. He recounted the events of August 16, 2023, when a violent mob, incited by mosque announcements, attacked Christian homes. The indigenous Christians were forced to flee for their lives as their houses were set ablaze, and the mob looted and vandalized them. The mob also targeted the church, demolishing the cross, and burning Bibles and holy books. The CFAM team expressed their empathy, consoled Pastor Phillips and the congregation, and distributed Bibles, promising support during this difficult time. The chairman prayed with Pastor Phillips for all the victims.

Saat Sangat Church, Chak no 120 Maharanwala: At this church, the team learned about a tragic incident. When the mob attacked the church, the local community tried to protect it, but with many men away for work, women, children, and the elderly were left to fend off the attackers. The mob even threatened to burn children if they weren't allowed through, causing the community's defence to crumble. The CFAM team assured their continued support and offered prayers.

Sister Mumtaz, in charge of the church, appreciated the CFAM team's unique initiative of providing musical instruments like Dice, Dholak, and Duff, which had been overlooked by others. While city churches and communities have received substantial support, Christians in the villages continue to face mistreatment, threats, and job discrimination. Christian children are unable to attend school due to the fear of violence. Landowners refuse to employ Christian workers, and Christian teachers in Muslim schools face threats and bans. Villagers are left with no choice but to seek work in different areas of the city, where they face discrimination due to their Christian faith.

The villagers urgently need a consistent food supply, especially for their children, and are seeking assistance to relocate to safer areas, fearing for their lives. These communities are in dire need of prayers and support. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers and help us ensure the safety and well-being of believers in Pakistan.