Christian Aid Mission : Christian Wedding Ceremony Sparks Violence in Pakistan

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Christian Wedding Ceremony Sparks Violence in Pakistan

August 14, 2009

A Christian family in Pakistan cut up pieces of paper to be used as confetti in an upcoming wedding. Out of this innocent act, a ridiculous rumor spread saying that the pieces of paper were really pages ripped out from the Koran and shredded.

Violence erupted in Korian and Gojra against the Christian communities and many people were killed. In fact, three women, one young girl, two men and a child were burned alive in their homes. People are in shock.

The streets are still filled with chaos. On one street, a group of mourners gather to pay respect to an elderly Gojra man who died of a heart attack during the attacks. In another part of the city, Zeenat, an elderly frail woman, is sleeping on the sidewalk. The heat is extreme, especially out on the streets.

Many are destitute of shelter and clothing. Various agencies are struggling to get food, water, and other basic necessities to the victims.

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."- Ephesians 2:10

Christian Aid asked a ministry leader in Pakistan how to help. He said that every family is asking for a Pay´tee. This is a large metal container (similar to a trunk) that is used for storing their possessions. There are so many people without a home to go to. They were burned or otherwise destroyed during the riots. Like all homeless people, they have nowhere to put the items they managed to salvage. A Pay´tee costs about $130.

Electricity has been restored in some areas. Fans would be very useful in shelters. One fan costs $88. Many are needed.

"We are giving Bibles to those who lost theirs, but we have few to give out," the ministry leader said. One Bible costs only $4.00, and many will be needed.