ASIA/PAKISTAN - Threats to churches for Christmas: Christians respond with prayer

Lahore (Agenzia Fides) - Christians and churches in Youhanabad, an area of the city of Lahore, one of the largest Christian settlements in the province of Punjab, have received threats of terrorist attacks for Christmas. As Fides learns, several churches have reported these threats to the authorities, asking to increase security measures.
After suicide bombings last March, when two suicide bombers blew themselves up in front of two churches in Youhanabad, one Catholic and one Protestant, residents live in constant fear, and recent messages have generated a new wave of panic. Nusrat Bibi, a teacher in Youhanabad, notes that "this year, fear and uncertainty reign in the streets of Youhanabad, no one feels safe. There will not be the usual stalls and Christmas decorations. It feels as if someone has stolen our happiness".
Although the presence of the police has increased, the Churches have their own supervisory body. But "a special weapon is prayer", notes the Christian Pakistani NGO "Life for All" (LFA), inviting civil society to participate in a campaign of "prayer for peace" in view of Christmas. Xavier Williams, President of LFA, told Fides: "For years, Pakistan has been fighting against terrorism that has hit the streets, squares, schools, mosques and churches. We will continue to pray unceasingly to God for the gift of peace, invoking the strength to overcome difficult moments like this. Terrorism is a challenge that affects us all. Christmas is a message of joy, hope and victory over death". (XP-PA) (Agenzia Fides 10/12/2015)

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terrorism

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evangelization

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local churches

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religious minorities

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