At least sixteen homes have been damaged in the Waheed Park area of Lahore, Pakistan after a drug addict disrupted an Islamic service and reportedly insulted Mohammed. The incident began around midnight on the night of September 9 when a Muslim imam was holding a "Qawali" (an Islamic service with mystical singing) in the home of a local Christian. Younis Masih (35) entered the home and reportedly began arguing with the imam. During the argument, he was accused of blaspheming against Mohammed. The host and the other Christians present demanded that Younis leave. Some news reports claim that Younis was beaten by the Christian residents and told to apologize, which he refused to do.
The next day, local Muslims went to Younis' home and beat him. His wife, Meena, was also injured in the attack. Younis and Meena went to the police station where he was arrested. Following the arrest of Younis, a mob of young Muslims began vandalizing the homes of Christians in the area as well as damaging a church building with stones. According to a report from the Centre for Legal Aid and Settlement (CLAAS), the police did nothing to prevent the attacks, choosing to rest at the home of a local councillor rather than intervening. Despite assurances from Muslim leaders that they only want Younis punished, around fifty Christian families have left the area in fear.
Pray for the peace and safety of the Christians living in the area who are suffering the consequences of one man's actions. Pray that the authorities will be prepared to protect the Christians, so that they need not live in fear for their lives.
For more information on the challenges facing Christians in Pakistan, click here.
Population
