On 7th August, hundreds of Christian families fled their homes when they say a huge mob, chanting anti-Christian slogans, marching towards their church building.
Pastor Gulzar, who leads the Presbyterian Church, received a message at around 1.30pm notifying him of the impending riot.
The riot was sparked by a youth seminar on the topic of “False Prophets” which took place the day before the attack, and which was misunderstood to be sacrilegious. The attack was averted due to the police’s swift intervention at the scene and the tense situation de-escalated after Pastor Gulhaz explained what the course had been about and apologized for any hurt feelings.
An agreement was subsequently signed by local Christian leaders and the rioters, promising to maintain peace in the area. However, despite the peace agreement, tensions remain among those who strongly oppose the practice of Christianity in the community. As a result, many of the Christian men have sent their wives and children to stay with relatives until they are confident that the threat if danger is no longer a concern.
Pray that church members and leaders will experience the empowerment of the Holy Spirit as they endeavour to reach out to the community, including those who oppose the gospel, with the love and grace of God. Pray that harmony will be restored in the area.
Pray that families that were forced to flee for their safety will receive God’s strength, peace and discernment as they determine when it is safe to return to their homes without negative consequences.
(Source & Photo : VOMC)
#Persecuted Church
