Last week, the Persecution and Prayer Alert reported that the health of Yousaf Masih was deteriorating badly because of the abusive treatment he was experiencing in prison (click here). Masih was arrested in late June for allegedly burning a copy of the Koran. According to the All Pakistan Minority Alliance, Masih was released August 6 on Rs 250,000 ($5000 CDN) bail. When Yousaf heard that he would be released on bail, he fell to his knees and loudly proclaimed "Hallelujah!" This release is the first time a prisoner charged with blasphemy has been released on bail after such a short period of time. Continue to pray that all charges will be dropped against him.
Update: Christian Janitor Released on Bail
- Current Ministry Projects
VOMC partners to train Christian women in sewing skills throughout Pakistan to provide a sustainable source of income for their families and encourage them in their faith and witness for Christ.
Project Funds: Families of Martyrs, Women’s Ministry
- Country Information
Population
247,653,551 (2023 est.)Ethnicity (%)
Punjabi (44.7), Pashtun [Pathan] (15.4), Sindhi (14.1), Saraiki (8.4) Muhajirs (7.6) Balochi (3.6), Other (6.3)Religion (%)
Islam (96.5), Other - Christian and Hindu (3.5)Leader
President Asif Ali Zardari (2024)Government type
Federal parliamentary republicLegal system
Common law system with Islamic law influenceSource: CIA World Factbook
- Pray for Pakistan
Pray that amendments will be made to Pakistan's existing blasphemy laws so that the country's citizens – including its children – will be protected from injustice and abuse. May our Lord's mercy and justice prevail, not only in the judiciary system but also in the hearts of the country's militants. Ask Him to transform their "hearts of stone" into hearts that are receptive to His love, mercy and the workings of His Holy Spirit – not only for the purpose of protecting the Christian minority but also for the salvation of their own eternal souls.
