Church leaders in Pakistan are calling for international solidarity and for measures to ensure the safety and security of Christians in the country. Their messages come in the wake of church burnings in the city of Jaranwala, in eastern Pakistan, where 24 churches have been burned, affecting at least 600 families.

Bishop Azad Marshall, Moderator Bishop of the Church of Pakistan commented in social media: “Words fail me as I write this. We, Bishops, Priests, and lay people are deeply pained and distressed at the Jaranwala incident in the Faisalabad District in Pakistan. A church building is being burnt as I type this message. Bibles have been desecrated and Christians have been tortured and harassed having been falsely accused of violating the Holy Quran.” He added: “We cry out for justice and action from law enforcement and those who dispense justice and the safety of all citizens to intervene immediately and assure us that our lives are valuable in our homeland that has just celebrated independence and freedom.”

The Rev Romella Robinson, a World Council of Churches central committee member from the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan, wrote with a heavy heart and deep concern.

“The actions of the ‘Muslim extremist mob’ are a stark reminder that while Pakistan achieved visible independence, the essence of humanity and compassion is still struggling to find its place in the hearts of some,” wrote Robinson.

It is essential to recognise that God’s true teachings embody justice, peace, and love, noted Robinson. “Violence and terror stand in opposition to these principles and reflect a distorted interpretation of faith,” wrote Robinson. “Such incidents, including the current wave of persecution in Pakistan, lay bare a lack of integrity before God and our fellow humans.”

We, as Christians, firmly believe in sharing God’s love unconditionally, Robinson added. “While we strive to forgive those who perpetrate violence, we cannot ignore the destruction and fragility inflicted upon Christians and their places of worship in Pakistan,” Robinson urged. “The persecution faced by minorities not only infringes upon their basic rights but also challenges the ethical standards upheld by civilised societies.”

These actions undermine the very promise of safety, protection, and religious freedom that Pakistan claims to provide for its citizens, said Robinson. “The present environment of fear, anger, and hopelessness is further exacerbated by economic challenges, unemployment, and a sense of lawlessness,” Robinson wrote. “In this critical time, it is imperative to amplify the voice of Pakistani Christian nationals on a global scale.”

Robinson further urged drawing the attention of affiliated organisations and individuals to stand in solidarity with Christians in Pakistan. “It is time for a resolute and just response that preserves the prosperity of Pakistan, an achievement we all commemorate as its nationals, transcending religious, ethnic, gender, and social differences,” Robinson wrote. “Amidst the turbulence, we hold onto the hope for a peaceful resolution.” 

(WCC)