Anti-Christian violence in Pakistan, more than 20 churches and two hundred houses vandalized – Dainik Savera Times

Islamabad: More than 20 churches and over 200 homes of Christian community members have been vandalized during the recent anti-Christian violence in Pakistan. Joseph Farooq, the only priest of the External Russian Orthodox Church of Russia (ROCOR) in Pakistan, gave this information on Friday. “Twenty-one churches and 200 houses of Christians were vandalized,” he said. Apart from this, several hundred copies of the holy book Bible were also destroyed. Violence broke out in Jaranwala city in mid-August. The priest said that some people falsely accused local Christians of tearing pages of the Quran and writing derogatory words about Islam’s Prophet Muhammad. “They made such announcements in the mosque and the crowd gathered against the Christians,” the priest said.

They destroyed their homes, churches and copies of the Holy Bible.” Father Joseph, who met the victims, said, “People told me that the mob stole valuables from their homes. They damaged properties, all the property, everything got damaged, everything. People were feeling helpless, people were crying.” Farooq said this is a big blow to the Christian community as most of them are poor and have to work for their Muslim landlords. “They work very hard and sweat to earn their living,” he said, stressing that preliminary investigations have shown that the violence was well-planned and coordinated. He said extremists began making announcements in mosques, gathering crowds and inciting crowds to violence against Christians. He said that during the violence many Muslims came forward to protect innocent Christians and provide them shelter.

“In Pakistan, most Muslims are nice and kind and they are friendly with Christians,” he said. Only a small minority practices fundamentalist Islam.” Asked about the reasons for such violence, the pastor cited lack of education and aggression due to the ongoing economic crisis in Pakistan. Father Joseph said that the police have already arrested about 100 people responsible for the violence. He said the Christian community has requested that Pakistani authorities ensure the safety of religious minorities. “Those responsible for the violence must be arrested and punished as per the law,” he warned. Otherwise, these incidents will happen again.”