Pakistan: Fears for Christians

At least 78 people were killed in what has been described as one of the deadliest attacks on Christians in Pakistan. A pair of suicide bombers blew themselves up outside a 130-year-old church in the city after Sunday Service. Explosions struck the historic white-stone All Saints Church in Kohati Gate area as hundreds of parishioners, many of them women and children, streamed out of the building.

Responsibility has been claimed in a chilling message that strikes fear in the heart of many. The Taliban-linked militant group TTP Jundullah claimed responsibility within hours of the attack. “They are the enemies of Islam, therefore we target them,” said the group’s spokesman, Ahmed Marwat. “We will continue our attacks on non-Muslims on Pakistani land.”

Attacks on Christian areas occur sporadically around the country but Sunday’s assault, in a densely populated Christian residential area in the old walled city in Peshawar, was the most violent in recent history.

Christians have reacted with outrage, and there are reports of violence as they vent their anger and pain. How long oh Lord, How long? As you pray for Pakistan and the Church in this land at this time, use the words of Habakkuk to lead you in seeing God’s heart and mercy.

For further reading: http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2013\09\23\story_23-9-2013_pg1_1