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“There were layers and layers of burning Bibles” – first-hand accounts from Pakistan’s Christians
17 October 2023
Pray with us for our family in Pakistan
25 August 2023Every R150
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7Pakistan
The devastating attack on the Christian community in Jaranwala in August 2023 was a sobering reminder of the hostile environment facing many believers in Pakistan.
Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws are often used to target minority groups, but Christians are disproportionately affected. Indeed, roughly a quarter of all blasphemy accusations target Christians, who only make up 1.8% of the population.
Believers are targeted in other ways, too – both overtly and subtly. The number of Christian girls (and those from other minority religions) abducted, abused and forcefully converted to Islam (frequently backed by lower courts) is growing, while churches that engage in outreach are particularly prone to opposition. All Christians suffer from institutionalised discrimination, and occupations that are deemed low, dirty and degrading are reserved for Christians by the authorities.
Meet Rehena
“At work, it’s dangerous to discuss my faith in Jesus in any way. We have to hide our identity. We can’t even say the name of Christ.”Rehena (name changed) gives a glimpse into what life is like for many Christians in Pakistan.
What does Open Doors do to help?
Open Doors is active in the Persian Gulf countries, including Pakistan, through The HOPE (Helping Others Pray and Encourage) Community.Please pray
- Pray that Christians will be protected from spurious allegations of blasphemy.
- Pray that believers will hold onto their identity as children of God as they are often demeaned.
- Pray for the protection and welfare of Christian women and girls, and for the release of all those taken from their families.
