‘Religious minorities in Pakistan face…atrocities on a regular basis.’ This is what Michelle Chaudhry, President of The Cecil & Iris Chaudhry Foundation, told CSW. ‘Unfortunately, the bigoted mindset, nurtured over decades, is very deeply rooted in our society.’

Freedom of religion or belief continues to be eroded in Pakistan. Religious intolerance is widespread, with reports of religious minorities being targeted with hate speech and false accusations of blasphemy, religious minority children facing discrimination in schools, and Hindu and Christian girls being abducted and forcibly converted and married. Find out more about Pakistan at csw.org.uk/pakistan

Sunday 25 October

On 29 June a Christian man, Nadeem Joseph, died from his injuries after being shot several times by his new neighbour – just because the neighbour didn’t want to live next door to a Christian. Ask God to comfort and protect Mr Joseph’s family.

Monday 26 October

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cecil & Iris Chaudhry Foundation (CICF) launched a ‘Coronavirus Relief Program’ to distribute food to vulnerable families, for six months since the end of March. Give thanks for organisations like the CICF, asking God to bless the work of their hands.

Tuesday 27 October

Imran Masih, a Christian, told CSW that when he was at school, ‘No Muslim classmate wanted to be my friend.’ Pray for comfort and strength for religious minority children who face discrimination and intolerance at school on account of their religion or belief.

Wednesday 28 October

Today marks the sixth anniversary of the violent murder of Christian couple Shehzad Masih and Shama Bibi, after they were falsely accused of blasphemy. Pray that justice would be served in their case, and that Pakistan’s controversial blasphemy laws would be repealed.

Thursday 29 October

‘Everybody knows that the state is hostile to us and that they can get away with murder… with anything.’ – Senior Ahmadi community leader. Ahmadi Muslims are the most widely persecuted religious minority in Pakistan, facing comprehensive discrimination and persistent violence. Ask God to protect the Ahmadiyya community today.

Friday 30 October

Pray this verse over all those working to defend human rights in Pakistan: ‘So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.’ (Isaiah 41:10).

Saturday 31 October

Lord God, we lift the nation of Pakistan before you. Please protect all those working to make Pakistan a more tolerant and inclusive country. We thank you for their brave and important work. Amen.

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