Update: Christian released on bail

07 January 2010

Naveed Masih
Photo from Compass Direct

Naveed Masih, a believer who was arrested and tortured by officials following an Islamic attack on Christians in Gojra, Pakistan in August 2009 (click here for the story), has been granted bail. Although Naveed (32) and his brother, Nauman (25), were arrested in early September for "rioting with deadly weapons and spreading terror with firing," Naveed has since been accused of killing one of the Muslim assailants. This accusation arose after one of the Muslims accused of participating in the attack tried to make a deal with him. When Naveed refused to accept money in exchange for withdrawing his testimony as a key witness, the Muslim implicated him in counter-charges. The Lahore High Courted granted Naveed bail on December 23. The brothers earlier requested bail in October, but only Nauman was released. (Source: Compass Direct)

Thank the Lord that Naveed has been granted bail. Pray for his safety, as he is fearful for his life. Pray that the charges against Naveed and Nauman will be dropped.

To learn more about the suffering of 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.