Appeal for prayers for Christians in Pakistan

On Sunday, August 20, a special Day of Prayer will be held in Pakistan in all the nation's Catholic communities. This announcement was made by the Pakistan Catholic Bishops' Conference, which entrusts to the Lord's hands the episodes of open violence against sacred buildings and the families of the baptized.

The spark for this violence was the unfounded, alleged accusation of blasphemy against Saleem Masih, an illiterate Christian who works in street sanitation.

Following an appeal by a local Islamic religious leader, a crowd unleashed mass violence, primarily targeting churches and homes of Christians in the Jaranwala area.

Dozens of churches were vandalised, with at least seven being razed to the ground. A Christian cemetery was desecrated, many Christian homes were destroyed, and at least three people remain hospitalized.

"Christians in Pakistan, when we think of the Western world, we think of you as our elder brothers and sisters in the faith, as the center of Christianity," said Pakistani Father Faryadd, who requested his last name be withheld out of fear for his life. "We feel very connected with you all, in faith and spirit, strengthened by your faith and your ability to live your faith openly. You can make the sign of the cross in public and not fear you will be stoned. We hope to one day be able to have this too, but until then, we ask that you value and appreciate this right. And that you continue to pray for us and help us."

Three ways you can help Christians in Pakistan:

- Include Pakistan in your prayers, especially during the upcoming Day of Prayer. Pray for safety, healing, justice, and peace. Ask your parish priest to include this intention during Sunday Mass.

- Consider making a donation to the Church in Pakistan through The Pontifical Mission Societies because churches, chapels, and homes will need to be rebuilt.

- If you cannot help by making a donation, perhaps you can do so by forwarding this email to members of your family or friends whom you think would be able to support the persecuted Christians in Pakistan.

The situation is critical, and your prayers and support can significantly help our suffering brothers and sisters in Pakistan.

For more information and to donate to the Pontifical Mission Societies see: www.missio.org/project/20914/Help-Christians-in-Pakistanl?localization=EN