Rehmat Masih (73) was jailed and imprisoned on accusations of blasphemy for allegedly insulting the Prophet Muhammad in Jhandewali village, Punjab province, Pakistan on June 20. "It is a false allegation based on events months before. The case has its background in land disputes," a local Christian leader, Father Asi, has said. Rehmat and his accuser had supported opposite sides in the local elections three months ago, which may have contributed to the tensions. Muslims have also threatened to accuse other Christian villagers of blasphemy. Pakistani Church leaders have long called for the repeal of blasphemy laws which authorize the death penalty for insults to the Prophet Muhammad and life imprisonment for acts against the Qur'an. (Source: Union of Catholic Asian News)
Pray that Rehmat will be released. Ask that he will be sustained and emboldened by the grace of Christ as he suffers. Pray that the blasphemy law will be abolished in Pakistan. Ask the Lord to enable these believers to stand firm in their faith amid severe pressure.
For more on the persecution of Pakistani Christians, click here.
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.
Religion (%) Islam (96.5), Other - Christian and Hindu (3.5)
Leader President Arif Alvi (2018)
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.
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Christians protest the frequently occurring abductions and forced conversions in Pakistan. Photo: Wikipedia / Banksboomer (cc)
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