The Christian minority in Pakistan is very vulnerable. It almost feels like an understatement to write it that way.
When extremists set fire to 21 churches in Jaranwala in August 2023 over false accusations of blasphemy, a bishop from the Church of Pakistan wrote on X: "...reassure us that our lives are valuable in our own homeland". I've reflected on that wording a few times.
A priest with whom the Danish European Mission collaborates tells in this magazine: "Christians are more afraid now than 5-10 years ago. Anyone can do whatever they want to us Christians. Because the rule of law doesn't work, extremists feel safe to commit vigilantism."
According to the Pakistani Center for Research and Security Studies 104 people have been killed between 1947 and May 2024, even though they were not convicted but only accused of blasphemy against Islam or because they criticized the blasphemy laws. Not the authorities, but extremists are behind the killings. As many as 21 % have died in the period 2020 - May 2024, indicating an increase in persecution in recent years.
Not only Christians but also other minorities are at risk and there is a sense of solidarity between the minorities that make up only 4 % of the population, while 96 % belong to the Sunni Muslim majority.
Christians are in dialog and conversation with politicians and authorities, but even Muslim politicians risk getting on the wrong side of extremist Islamist forces if they even suggest changing blasphemy laws. For example, Punjab Governor Salman Teseer was killed in 2011 because of his criticism of blasphemy laws.
But even in Pakistan, there are glimmers of hope. Christians are adopting new strategies to reach spiritual seekers frustrated with Islam. The movement of Christian converts is still small, and seekers discreetly seek out Christians and fellowship in underground churches.
And it is encouraging that poor children from the Christian minority can go to school with the support of the Danish European Mission's intercessors and donors. Being able to read, write and count, and to further their education benefits the Christian minority in a concrete way. These children can have a better future than their parents and make a positive difference in Pakistan.
Let us pray for Pakistan. God has good plans for Pakistan - for a future and hope - even for a country that some would characterize as a failed state.
