Asia Bibi Has One Final Appeal

Asia BibiAsia Bibi was arrested in 2009 after a disagreement with Muslim co-workers. She was convicted of blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad and sentenced to death. She has appealed to the Supreme Court of Pakistan and is currently waiting for the court to hear her case.

Asia has been in jail for more than seven years, separated by walls and bars from her husband and daughters. She has been threatened in jail, and must often cook her own food as a precaution against the possibility of poisoning. Yet she has tenaciously held onto her faith in Christ. VOM Canada's previously posted reports on Asia's case are available here.

Asia is one of many Christians who are imprisoned around the world because they follow Jesus rather than the edicts of their government or captors. They call out to God each day, and we can join in calling out to God on their behalf. Other reports relating to persecution of believers in Pakistan may be accessed by going to our online country report.

Pray that Asia and her family will remain strong in their faith. As they await the upcoming appeal hearing, may they be sustained with the loving-kindness, protection, peace and presence of God. Ask Him to use Asia's testimony in wonderful ways -- serving as a witness for Christ to guards, officials, prisoners, members of the community, and many others in Pakistan and around the world. Also uphold the legal team and judicial authorities as the appeal is prepared for presentation in court, praying that they receive divine wisdom and protection against the threats of those opposing Asia and her Christian values.

  • Current Ministry Projects

    VOMC partners to train Christian women in sewing skills throughout Pakistan to provide a sustainable source of income for their families and encourage them in their faith and witness for Christ.

    Project Funds: Families of Martyrs, Women’s Ministry

  • Country Information

    Population
    247,653,551 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Punjabi (44.7), Pashtun [Pathan] (15.4), Sindhi (14.1), Saraiki (8.4) Muhajirs (7.6) Balochi (3.6), Other (6.3)

    Religion (%)
    Islam (96.5), Other - Christian and Hindu (3.5)

    Leader
    President Asif Ali Zardari (2024)

    Government type
    Federal parliamentary republic

    Legal system
    Common law system with Islamic law influence

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Pakistan

    Pray that amendments will be made to Pakistan's existing blasphemy laws so that the country's citizens – including its children – will be protected from injustice and abuse. May our Lord's mercy and justice prevail, not only in the judiciary system but also in the hearts of the country's militants. Ask Him to transform their "hearts of stone" into hearts that are receptive to His love, mercy and the workings of His Holy Spirit – not only for the purpose of protecting the Christian minority but also for the salvation of their own eternal souls.

Pakistan News

  • Blasphemy Conviction for Online Posts
    Furniture and possessions are strewn on a street. Some of them are burning.
    The riots in 2023.
    Photo: Morning Star News

    In August 2023, the Christian colony of Jaranwala was filled with violence after allegations of blasphemy were made against two brothers. During the rampage, as many as 400 homes and 26 church buildings were damaged or destroyed. For more details, and to view video footage of the attacks, see this page.

  • Wife of Nazir Masih Dies of a Heart Attack
    Naseem and Nazir
    Naseem and Nazir
    Photo: Morning Star News
     

    In May, shocking images of mob violence were revealed after 74-year-old Nazir Masih was falsely accused of burning pages from the Quran. The elderly Christian man was fatally wounded during the resulting mob violence, which also led to the destruction of his shoemaking business, along with several attacks against other Christians. Further details on the violent rampage are available here.