Christian imprisoned on charges of blasphemy

01 April 2010

Police in Punjab province, Pakistan recently arrested a Christian woman, Rubina Bibi, on accusations of "blasphemy." One of Rubina's relatives, a militant Muslim, accused her of making a derogatory comment about Muhammad following a minor domestic dispute. Police then arrested her and allegedly tortured her at the police station in the town of Alipur. Authorities have reportedly attempted to cover up her detention and subsequent harassment. At last report, she had been transferred to Gujranwala Jail with charges under Section 295-C of Pakistan's blasphemy laws, which could lead to life imprisonment with a large fine or even a death sentence. (Source: Compass Direct)

Pray that the charges against Rubina will be dropped and that she will be released. Pray for endurance of faith as she suffers for righteousness' sake. Pray that her passion for Christ will be a light that draws others to Jesus (Matthew 5:14-16).

To find out more about Pakistan's suffering Christians, go to the Pakistan Country Report.

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.