Photo: Family
In Pakistan, many Christians have been falsely accused of blasphemy, resulting in years of imprisonment. If released, their lives are frequently in greater danger outside of prison due to the threat of mob violence --- posing them to conditions that are far more serious than those they faced while in prison. To learn more about what life is like for Christians in Pakistan, and to read about the situations they have encountered, go to our country report.
The case of Asia Bibi made international headlines when years of prayers were answered with her acquittal in October 2018. However, threats of violence kept her locked away for her own safety until plans were made to have her secretly flown to Canada six months later. Asia was not alone in facing the real possibility of death after being released from prison. Such cases usually require the discrete relocation of released believers and their families to a safe undisclosed location for their protection.
In June, we were thankful to report that Shafqat Emmanuel and his wife Shagufta Kausar were finally acquitted on June 3rd, after waiting seven years on death row. We praise the Lord that, according to the latest report, they have since been released from prison and are now residing in a safe location with their children.
This Christian couple had been arrested in 2013, after a Muslim cleric claimed to have received a blasphemous text message from Shagufta's phone. Despite multiple irregularities proving their innocence, the two were sentenced to death for blasphemy. After years of legal appeals and delays, the verdict was finally overturned.
Praise God that Shafqat and Shagufta have been joyfully reunited with their children, and that they are now all residing together in a safe location. Pray that this Christian family will continue to be protected from vigilante violence. Considering the lengthy ordeal and separation they have all endured throughout the imprisonment, ask God to administer greatly needed healing and restoration in every area of their lives. Also prayerfully remember the many other Christians who remain incarcerated in Pakistan because of the false accusations of blasphemy against them. May they too experience the grace and strength of the Lord as they anticipate His promised deliverance and restoration in their own lives.
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