Pakistani Church Bombing Killing 81 Prompts Global Call to Prayer from Christians and Muslims

Gospel for Asia Leader Champions Peace over Persecution

Gospel for Asia
For Immediate Release
For More Information Contact:
Taun Cortado @ 972-300-3120
tauncortado@gfa.org 

CARROLLTON, TX (ANS) -- In the aftermath of one of the deadliest attacks on Pakistan's Christian community on Sunday that killed 81 at the historic All Saints Church in Peshawar, both Christian and Muslim leaders are calling for prayer for the injured and families of all victims.

Victims' relatives outside the historic All Saints' church, the day after suicide bombers killed at least 81 people there after the Sunday service. (Photo: Arshad Arbab/EPA)

As believers exited All Saints Church Sept. 22, two suicide bombers detonated their explosive devices, leaving at least 81 dead and 140 injured.

"In this time of tragedy, let us pray not only for healing and comfort, but also that God will continue using it to provide peace and turn sympathies toward Pakistani believers who have faced much persecution in the past," said K. P. Yohannan, founder and director of Gospel for Asia (www.gfa.org/info/pakistan-bombing/).

Gospel for Asia has provided flood relief in the recent past for Pakistan citizens through its Compassion Services teams. "As the Bible says, when one of us suffers, we all suffer," said Yohannan.

People were completing worship and about to share a meal together when suicide bombers entered the church compound. Among the dead were 34 women and seven children, as well as two Muslim police officers.

A splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, saying they "will continue to strike wherever we will find an opportunity against non-Muslims" until their political demands are met.

In a country where only 3 percent are Christians, many Muslims expressed sympathy and outrage at the attack on peaceful worshippers, and government officials have condemned the attack. "Such cruel acts of terrorism reflect the brutality and inhumane mindset of the terrorists," said Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Muslim and Christian leaders around the world have called for a time of prayer for the victims of the bombing. "We are with our Christian brothers and sisters in this time of grief and sorrow," said Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi.

Gospel for Asia is specifically calling people to pray for:

* Healing and comfort for the victims and their families.
* Grace for Pakistan's Christian leaders and other believers ministering to the victims.
* Changed hearts in the people who planned this and future attacks.
* Wisdom for Pakistan's leaders as they determine the best way to deal with terrorists in religious persecution in their nation.
* Peace in Pakistan.