Update on Sangla Hill

11 January 2006

Three On November 12, several Christian buildings were destroyed and hundreds of Christians fled the community of Sangla Hill west of Lahore, Pakistan, after riots erupted following a fire in a mosque. A Christian man was blamed for starting the fire. For details on the story, click here.

According to news reports from Pakistan's Daily Times, all accusations have been dropped against Younas Masih. In exchange, no further action will be taken against the rioters who destroyed the buildings.

Pray that the believers will be able to rebuild with no further opposition from the Muslims in the area. Thank God that the accusations against Younas have been dropped. Pray that the tensions will subside and that believers will lead the way in peaceful exchange with their Muslim neighbors.

For more information on the persecution facing Christians in Pakistan, click here.

Pakistan

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 republic

Legal system
Common law system with Islamic law influence

Source: 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.