Urgent Call for Prayer: Christians in Pakistan Need Your Support Amidst Distressing Times
Dear brothers and sisters, please pray for Christians in Pakistan. In Jaranwala, Pakistan, a distressing situation has unfolded as hundreds of Christian homes have been obliterated due to the instigation of violence originating from multiple mosques. Within the district, tensions flared after a recent accusation of blasphemy was levelled against a Christian man. The aftermath of this incident has been marked by numerous brutal assaults, resulting in the injury of thousands of individuals. Therefore, tens of thousands now find themselves without shelter. To seek safety, many families have been compelled to seek refuge outside the city, relying on the goodwill of friends and relatives. I request you to pray in their time of need and safety.
Disturbingly, the Christian community in Jaranwala, Punjab, is confronted with a deeply troubling development. Reportedly, hundreds of homes and the burning of many churches, including 3 Presbyterian, Salvation Army, FGA, Catholic Church, and one local small church, included Aec Church Essa Nagri, Kingdom of God Church, the Church of God, Billy Graham Church, Calvary Church, Amazing Grace Church, and BM Church, across three Christian towns within the Jaranwala district of Lahore Punjab.
The incident at 9 am Wednesday, August 16, 2023, has forced numerous families to flee to safer areas, leaving others stranded without shelter. Responding swiftly to the unfolding catastrophe, Christ for All Ministry looking forward to helping our brothers and sisters to provide, assistance such as food and other basic needs. We are actively collaborating with local pastors to coordinate efforts aimed at rescuing and supporting affected families.
The situation escalated following allegations against Saleem Masih, a Christian man accused of desecrating the Holy Quran. Certain factions within the local Muslim community reportedly seized upon these allegations, using local mosques to incite violence and urge people to gather and respond by targeting the Christian towns. In the impacted regions, including Cinema Basti, Christian Town, and Esa Nagar, more than 500 houses have been destroyed. Law enforcement agencies have been mobilized to restore order, and due to the gravity of the situation, additional security measures have been put in place, including the deployment of Rangers. Reports from on-ground volunteers of CFAM Team, coordinator Evangelist Waseem, and Arshad, indicate that a tumultuous mob of around 10,000 individuals has wreaked havoc within the Christian towns. Although no casualties have been reported thus far, the situation remains extremely volatile. Although thousands of miles may stand between us, our persecuted brothers and sisters are our family, and we are called to bear their burdens.
Galatians 6:2 says to carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, we will fulfill the law of Christ.