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Pakistan

• Family Pressured to Compromise Charges

  Pray for the protection of young Christian women in Pakistan. Photo: Flickr / Flying Cloud

  According to the Legal Evangelical Association Development (LEAD), a Christian relief and advocacy group, Fouzia Bibi of Village Roday (District of Kasur) was a victim of sexual assault. During the early evening of January 25th, 2013, 15-year-old Fouzia was bringing milk to the landlord from one of his nearby cattle areas. Along the way, two Muslims armed with pistols, Sher Muhammad and Shabir Ali, reportedly abducted and imprisoned her in a room. The alleged assailants then brutally raped and tortured her. No one could hear the cries of the victimized Christian girl who was left unconscious.

  The girl's father, Malooka Masih, notified National Director LEAD Advocate Sardar Mushtaq Gill on May 24th that a bail hearing had been filed in Lahore's High Court for the alleged perpetrators. Prior to this, the victim's cousin, Alam Ashiq, was helping the Christian family throughout the ordeal. However, Fouzia's father was recently notified that those accused of the rape had enlisted law enforcement cooperation from the city of Muridkey. This has resulted in Alam being arrested for involvement in "a case" (details not known), which was registered against "unknown people" about six months ago. Using Alam as a lever, law enforcement officials are pressuring the family to compromise on the charges so that bail can be granted to the alleged rapists.

  Representative Sardar Mushtaq Gill appeared before a deputy superintendent of police in Muridkey in an attempt to advocate for justice in the case. He said it is a common occurrence for complainants to be pressurized by a variety of different tactics, including making them allegedly involved in unspecified crimes with the intent of bringing about "compromise." Read about other cases of injustice at the Pakistan Country Report.

  First of all, let's lift up in prayer young Fouzia who has been violated and traumatized by the violent assault. May our compassionate Saviour minister greatly needed comfort and healing in her life. Also pray for Fouzia's devastated family who are not only concerned for her well-being but now also must contend with the injustice and manipulation of law enforcement officers. Ask for God's mighty intervention in the situation...granting wisdom to the family's legal representatives, favour with the court officials, dismissal of the false charges against Alam, required disciplinary measures for the perpetrators, and an extra measure of strength and spiritual encouragement for the entire family.

• Taliban Kidnap Young Disciple of Christ

  Aman Ullah (second from left) Photo: Assist News

  A 16-year-old Christian convert from Islam by the name of Aman Ullah was kidnapped by the Taliban on May 25th in Peshawar, the heart of Pakistan's North-West Frontier Province. "We don't know which of the 32 different Taliban groups operating both in Afghanistan and Pakistan is responsible," says John Taimoor, founder of Crossbearers ministry. "My team, workers and disciples from Muslim backgrounds are facing pressures from many sides and physical persecution." (For previous reports of persecution in Pakistan, please go to the Pakistan Country Report.)

  The young kidnap victim came to Christ about a year ago, and he has already memorized the books of John and Ephesians in the Bible. His goal is to memorize the entire New Testament since he had memorized the Quran as a young person. "He is very dear to me," Taimoor shares. "'Aman Ullah' means 'peace of God' in Arabic, Persian, Urdu and Pushto languages," he adds. "He is a diamond, very dedicated and brilliant.... He made public statements and gave his testimony."

  Taimoor asks for prayers for his ardent young disciple. "We are looking to our Saviour who is able to save us to the uttermost but we also look to our friends for prayer and what God places on their hearts!"

  Pray for Aman's protection, asking for favour among his captors. In fact, while waiting for his safe release, may this young disciple be anointed as God's spokesperson in their lives, helping them to realize their need of Jesus as Saviour and Lord. Also ask God to protect and minister to all who are faithfully serving Him in Pakistan.

• Commencement of Blasphemy Trial

  Protests were held in Lahore following the riots.

  Please continue to uphold Pakistani Christian Sawan Masih whose court trial was scheduled to begin on April 22nd. The roadsweeper from Lahore was charged following accusations made against him which reportedly prompted widespread rioting in the Joseph colony last month. (To read the previously posted prayer alert concerning this situation, click here.)

  Pray for protection and justice on behalf of Sawan, and all who are supporting him. May God grant wisdom and favour to those who are advocating bravely in his defense. Also remember to intercede for the many innocent members of this devastated Christian community whose homes have been completely demolished. Ask the Lord to work mightily on their behalf, bringing greatly needed healing, provision and restoration in their lives.

• Younis Masih Granted Blasphemy Appeal!

  Younis Masih’s wife, Meena, is pictured here with Shahbaz Bhatti, who spoke on Younis’ behalf. Photo: All Pakistan Minorities Alliance

  The VOM ministry team is pleased to announce the good news that Younis Masih has just been released by the High Court in Lahore. (His release took place on April 3rd). The father of four, who suffered a serious heart attack this past January while in custody, has been imprisoned since November 2005. Please pray for God's perfect peace and ongoing protection of Younis and his reunited family as they rebuild their lives together. We can also thank the Lord for the courage of the High Court judges who resisted pressure from all those in opposition, ensuring that justice was done. May His blessings be upon them as well for upholding the truth in the court of law. For a past report on this believer's case, review this story.

• Homes Set Ablaze by Mob of Extremists

  Damaged property from the fire

  According to the most recent reports, hundreds of homes in a Christian neighbourhood of Lahore were set on fire by thousands of Muslim extremists during two days of violence that began during the evening of March 8th, and then continued again the following morning. The attacks were sparked by yet another incident involving blasphemy allegations against a local Christian.

  It all began when a young man by the name of Sawan Masih got involved in a petty dispute with a close Muslim friend. Following the incident, police arrested Sawan who was accused of blasphemy. When the allegations were broadcast from mosque loudspeakers, thousands of Muslims went on a rampage in the community, setting fire to approximately 200 homes. In addition, two churches, a chapel and many shops were vandalized; numerous Christians had been beaten; houses were looted; and hundreds of Bibles purposely burned. Fearing for their lives, nearly all the residents of this terror-stricken region fled, some on the advice of local police. For more on the challenges facing Christians in Pakistan, go to the Pakistan Country Report.

  Pray that in the aftermath of these violent attacks, the people of this Christian community will be granted the courage and hope needed to rebuild their lives and emerge even stronger in their faith. May those with political power and influence take a strong stand against such terrible acts of lawlessness, proactively doing more to protect all the innocent and vulnerable members of the community. Also pray that the charges made against Sawan will be dropped, and that his family and community will be protected from further incidents of violence.

• Judge Dismisses Blasphemy Charge

  Barkat Masih Photo: World Watch Monitor

  In a surprising ruling on January 28th, a judge serving the Punjab province court of law threw out charges of blasphemy against Christian convert, Barkat Masih, who was accused of insulting Islam. The ruling came two months after similar charges were dismissed against Rimsha Masih, the teenage girl whose case attracted worldwide criticism of Pakistan's anti-blasphemy laws. (For a past report on Rimsha's case, click here.)

  In September of 2011, an incident took place at a Hindu shrine in Barkat's native village of Khairpur Tamewali. (This particular shrine happens to be located on two acres of land which has remained in Barkat's family for generations.) It all began when two frequent visitors to the shrine deliberately started an altercation with him, alleging that he had spoken badly against the Muslim prophet. Following a complaint filed by the two accusers, police arrested and charged Barkat on October 1st. Penalties for blasphemy offences can include life imprisonment or death.

  While awaiting trial, Barkat was incarcerated for almost 16 months. During that time, a total of 25 people submitted affidavits in Barkat's favour, defending his innocence. A further investigation revealed that the two shrine visitors had actually plotted to take over Barkat's land and, therefore, implicated him in a false case. Since the accusers were unable to produce any evidence to the contrary, the blasphemy charge was dismissed. "I didn't think God would rescue me from such an impossible situation," explains 56-year-old Barkat after hearing the judgement, "but my miraculous rescue has strengthened my faith in Him."

  Due to threats from those in his village, Barkat and his family will have to relocate. Even Judge Chaudhry Jamil Ahmad, who has taken an indefinite leave of absence since the trial, understands the dangers of challenging Pakistan's deep-rooted sensitivity about criticism of Islam. To learn more about what believers are facing in Pakistan, check the Pakistan Country Report.

  We can rejoice over the fact that justice has prevailed in both of the above mentioned cases. First, let's thank our Heavenly Father for answering prayer on behalf of Barkat and Rimsha by bringing vindication to them in the courts. Continue to pray not only for the protection of these believers and their families, but also for those who have dared enough to defend their cause and uphold justice amid opposition. May God's wisdom illuminate the minds of all who are representing Pakistan's judicial system, bringing about further positive change that will greatly impact all of its citizens.

• Younis Masih Suffers Serious Heart Attack in Jail

  Shahbaz Bhatti, who was assassinated, speaks at a press conference with Younis Masih’s wife, Meena. Photo: All Pakistan Minorities Alliance

  While serving a death sentence in northern Punjab for blasphemy, Younis Masih suffered a serious heart attack and has since been transferred to a civilian hospital. The situation has been upsetting for his wife Meena and their four children who reside about nine hours' travelling distance away, making visitation difficult since his transfer. There is also concern that Younis could be at greater risk of impending harm by Islamist extremists while in hospital.

  Younis, who has been imprisoned for more than seven years, was detained in November of 2005 after a Muslim cleric accused him of making derogatory remarks about Islam's prophet Mohammed. Those in support of Younis report he was falsely accused after requesting that those attending a local Islamic ceremony "make less noise." An appeal has been presented against his death sentence, resulting in a court hearing that is scheduled for January 17th. For more on the challenges facing fellow believers in Pakistan, go to the Pakistan Country Report.

  Please intercede to our Lord, the Great Physician, for the complete healing and recovery of our dear suffering brother. Pray that Younis will receive excellent care and protection while in hospital and that he may have the comfort of his family's presence. Ask the Lord for His favour upon Younis at the court hearing, and that all those involved will witness His mighty intervention.

• Advocates Take Stand for Christian Beliefs

  While minorities, particularly Christians, are deliberately oppressed in Pakistan, an emerging political leader is bringing greater awareness of the need for positive change in this regard. (Go to the Pakistan Country Report for more about the treatment of believers.) Albert David, Chairman of the Pakistan United Christian Movement (PUCM) launched his new political party this past October, becoming the most visible guest in the city of Isalamabad during recent advent celebrations. He firmly believes that Christians should actively participate in national politics "to ensure their increased visibility and importance."

  Pakistani journalist and human rights activist Shamim Masih reports: "Mr. David was invited to 25 programs organized by different churches, social organizations and community groups, and the PUCM chairman availed himself during this wonderful time to not only share the message of Christmas, but also talk about the importance of the Pakistan Christian community being vibrant and visible in the national political scene. During his speeches, he focussed on the true message and spirit of Christmas, which he said included unconditional love, peace, hope and, most importantly, the sharing of joys with the less fortunate."

  As advocates of God's justice and mercy through prayer, we can rejoice over the fact that He is equipping and raising up Christians in various areas of leadership, even in the political realm. Pray for the Lord to grant these leaders wisdom, insight, protection and favour as they represent Him and serve as a voice for the oppressed, including those typically persecuted or martyred for their faith. May Albert David's voice be heard clearly by both the Christian community and the general public of Pakistan, serving as a catalyst for greatly needed positive change.

• Christian Girl Abducted, Raped and Tortured

  Pray for Pakistani women as their struggles increase.

  A 14-year-old Pakistani Christian girl by the name of Asiya Masih was innocently picking flowers outdoors when two Muslim men kidnapped her on the 11th of November. The two men, Mohammad Javed and Mohammad Mumtaz, whisked the girl away to a secret location where she was forced to sign a document stating that she had converted to Islam. They also raped and tortured her during the 11 days of captivity.

  When the girl's father, Francis Masih, discovered that these men had abducted his daughter, he issued a complaint at the local police station but, unfortunately, the officers did not cooperate with him. Afterwards, the abductors contacted Francis personally, threatening that if he was to contact the police, they would kill young Asiya. They also proposed that if he wanted his daughter back alive, then he would have to give them a written document promising that he will not take any police action.

  Although the young teen was eventually rescued by her father, with the help of an influential Christian businessman, local imams are stating that she is now "legally" a Muslim and, therefore, cannot live her life any longer as a Christian. In fact, one imam is now threatening to burn Christian homes if the young girl does not follow Islamic practices. Check the Pakistan Country Report for an historical overview of Pakistan and its stance on Christianity. While there, you will discover other information and video reports provided by VOM Canada.

  First of all, please pray that the Lord will provide complete physical, emotional and spiritual healing to distressed Asiya. May He also grant her and her family justice in this very heart-breaking situation. In addition, ask that His protection to be extended to all of the defenceless girls and women in Pakistan, and that the perpetrators behind these harmful acts will realize the seriousness of their actions against God's people and thus repent of their sins.

• Dedicated Christian Worker Shot

  Birgitta Almeby

  It has just been confirmed by our VOM contacts that Birgitta Almeby, Area Director of Full Gospel Assemblies in Lahore, Pakistan, is in critical condition after two unidentified gunmen riding a motorcycle opened fire when she arrived home from the office on December 3rd. Although the doctors were able to remove the bullet from her chest, the shooting caused considerable damage to the 70-year-old woman's lungs and jugular vein. "We have kept her in the Intensive Care Unit, where her situation is precarious because of the excessive bleeding," announced Dr. Ali Usman of Jinnah Hospital.

  For 38 years, Birgitta has faithfully served in Pakistan, where her unwavering dedication and commitment are appreciated by the believers of the Lahore community. While police officers are presently investigating the source of attack from all angles, it's possible that the shooting was carried out by Islamist extremists who are increasingly targeting Christians in Pakistan. For more information on the challenges facing Christians in this country, please go to the Pakistan Country Report.

  May our Almighty God miraculously intervene, not only sparing Birgitta's life, but also ministering complete healing to the areas wounded by the attack. Please also pray that He will bring much needed peace and encouragement to her family and fellow Christian workers, as well as to all those in the community she so lovingly served. In fact, through this circumstance, may these believers increase in their effectiveness of reaching those who are spiritually lost (including the gunmen) by demonstrating His heart of concern for their present eternal destiny.

  Additional note: Many of our struggling fellow believers in Pakistan will be the recipients of VOM Canada's "Christmas Blessing" packages throughout the Christmas season. Thank you for participating with us by sharing the love of Jesus in this most practical and helpful way!