Pakistan’s Christians are hated in their own country and forgotten by the world. But they are not forgotten by you.
After her husband’s death, 40-year-old Nasreen was, says a Barnabas Aid worker in Pakistan, “lost in grief”.
Many of us will know that though we do not grieve as those without hope, the loss of a loved one remains a painful wound.
Nasreen (left, pictured with her daughter) could no longer afford food for her family after the death of her husband
But for Nasreen and her two children, the pain was worsened by the sting of poverty and the threat of hunger.
Nasreen’s husband, Tariq, was a factory worker. With his wages the family could just about support themselves.
After his death Nasreen found what work she could – cleaning, washing dishes – but opportunities for Christian widows are few and far between, and she could never earn enough.
Nasreen’s story is not unusual. Illness, bereavement and job loss are an existential threat to Christians in an environment of hatred and marginalisation.
But you have shown care and compassion. You have overcome hatred with practical support and loving kindness.
Many others are still going hungry. Will you show the love of Christ to those who are hated for His Name?
Thanks to you, Nasreen and her family now receive a monthly food parcel through their church.
But many others are still going hungry.
Our brothers and sisters in Christ are still hated for His Name. Can you show them His love today?
How you can pray
Lord God and Heavenly Father, we lift up to You our hated and hungry brothers and sisters in Pakistan. Please bless the work of Barnabas Aid partners – churches and Christian ministries – in helping us to meet their urgent need. Please strengthen the faith of Your children despite their trying circumstances, for we ask it in our Saviour’s name.
How you can give
£20 ($25; €22) could provide for a food parcel that will supply 50% of a family’s food needs for one month
£120 ($150; €132) could provide food parcels for six months
£240 ($300; €264) could provide food parcels for a whole year
