12/17/2018 Washington D.C. (International Christian Concern) – One year ago, the Christian community of Quetta was devastated by a terrorist attack. On Sunday, December 17, 2017, two militants carrying guns and wearing suicide vests attacked Bethel Memorial Methodist Church, killing 10 and injuring over 50 others gathered for worship.

As the militants attacked, they were met with resistance from security guards deployed to the church. One militant was shot and killed before he could enter the church compound. The other, however, was only wounded and detonated his deadly payload in the doorway of the church as more than 400 worshippers ran for cover.

Although a year has passed since the bombing, many Christians in Quetta are still filled with a sense of fear, depression, and anxiety.

“It was unforgettable day,” Pastor Simon, the pastor of Bethel Memorial Methodist Church, told International Christian Concern (ICC). “I can’t delete all the memories and associations with the people who we lost a year ago. May their souls rest in Jesus.”

“The Christians of Quetta are still scared and fearful while organizing Christmas events,” Pastor Simon explained. “The main memorial service [commemorating the attack] was held in the church on Sunday, December 16. It was attended by over 1,000 faithful.”

“The people have restored gradually, however, they are scared in the wake of the sad incident,” Pastor Simon continued. “Being in a sensitive part of the country, there are threats looming all the time.”

Describing the positive security efforts being made by local authorities, Pastor Simon said, “[Dozens] of professional security personnel belonging to Frontier Core Regiment have been deputed for 24/7 security in the church.”