Police have increased security around The Voice of Jesus Church in Khokhar, Pakistan, after a mob of approximately 40 men disrupted an evening service on April 16th. Thankfully, the injuries perpetrated by the mob were minimal. Even so, the church's gates and windows were damaged during the incident, and three bullet holes were left in the outer wall of the building.
The conflict arose when three men on motorcycles began to harass the 19-year-old daughter of Pastor Younas Javed before the service. Her brother Sharjeel asked them to stop, but they responded by abusing him. The men then recruited others, and the violence turned against the church facility and the service being held inside.
While police have provided protection for the church, they dispute allegations that religious connections were associated with the attack. The sub-inspector described the incident merely as a "fight between kids." The pastor, however, says that harassment of this kind is common in the area. To learn more about the hardships experienced by Christians in Pakistan, and/or to review informative podcasts/video documentaries, go to our country report.
Pray that the members of this church will be kept safe from any further potential violence, and that the police will continue to provide necessary security. Prayerfully uphold the ongoing ministry of Christians in the area who, despite living under the daily threat of hostility, are boldly reaching out with the Gospel. May the lives and words of believers throughout Pakistan be a testimony of God's love and grace to those around them, leading many to faith in Christ.
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