ICC Note:

Hundreds of Christians in Pakistan participated in a peace rally held in Lahore. The Christians chanted Christmas wishes and prayed for peace in Pakistan as they marched through the city’s streets. Christians in Pakistan often face widespread discrimination and sometimes outright persecution. False blasphemy accusations, forced conversions to Islam, and terrorist attacks on churches only name a few of the issues Christians in Pakistan endure because of their religious identity. 

12/12/2016 Pakistan (Christians in Pakistan) – Hundreds of Christians in Lahore turned out to hold a Christian Peace Rally, on December 11, Sunday. This rally was organized under the banner of Praise TV and Ministry and was led by Senior Pastor Shahzad Sadique- Chairman Praise TV. Christians from various parts of the city participated in this rally carrying national flag and chanting Christmas wishes and peace prayers for the country.

This rally started from Lahore’s Marriam Colony and ended at Defense Chowk, Walton Road. AT this occasion, Christians were carrying banners and placards with prayers for peace in the country written on them. “May peace prevail in Pakistan,” one banner read. “Peace in Pakistan,” and “Jesus is the King of Peace,” other banners read.

At the same time, the participants were also carrying Pakistani flags and stars symbolizing the festivity of the Christmas. Pastor Shahzad Sadique extended Christmas and New Year’s wishes to all, as he prayed for peace and harmony in the country.

At this occasion the Pastor Shazad and others cut a Christmas cake to mark the festivity of the occasion. Saleem Rehmat Sindhu, Senior Vice President Pakistan Muslim N- Minority Wing Lahore was also present. While speaking to media, the participants expressed great joy and jubilation at the same time expressed wishes for peace in their homeland.

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