In Lahore, Pakistan, where Christians make up only a small minority in a predominantly Muslim society, Christmas takes on a special meaning. Despite facing significant challenges and restrictions, the Christian community continues to celebrate the birth of Christ with deep faith. Fr Lazar Aslam tells ACN what it’s like being a Catholic there.

The tragic death of Suleman Masih, a 24-year-old Christian, has shocked the local community and once again highlighted the challenges faced by Christians and other religious minorities in Pakistan. Suleman was attacked on December 29, 2024, in Kot Saadullah, Rahawali, Gujranwala, and succumbed to his injuries on New Year’s Day.

A Christian mother of four in Pakistan, former nurse Shagufta Kiran, has been fined 300,000 Pakistani Rupees (€950) and, appallingly, sentenced to death for sharing allegedly blasphemous messages on WhatsApp – but legal advocates, supported by a leading Catholic charity – have vowed to appeal the conviction.

One year on from violence described as the worst ever outbreak of anti-Christian persecution in Pakistan, Church leaders say people are both terrified of more attacks and furious that culprits have not been brought to justice. The Christians of Jaranwala are grateful to ACN benefactors for making it possible for them to receive this very necessary aid from the charity.

Shagufta Kausar was falsely accused of blasphemy. For almost eight years she was separated from her family, her husband was beaten and tortured, and they were pressured to convert to Islam. Now free, she tells in an interview with Aid to the Church in Need how she found strength in her faith.

A decade-and-a-half ago Archbishop Sebastian Shaw found much scepticism and little interest in dialogue from Muslim leaders. After years of building trust, he says that the Islamic leaders themselves are now taking the initiative to speak up for persecuted Christians.

Local sources have suggested that the killing of the two Christian brothers by their Muslim neighbours may have a religious dimension.