By Open Doors 24 January 2019

Christian Freed From Blasphemy Charges

On 15 January, Pervaiz Masih was released after spending three-and-half years in prison, charged with insulting the prophet Mohammad in September 2015.

The Kassur Session Court in the Punjab Province could not find enough evidence to convict Masih of blasphemy. However, the acquittal by a lower court is unusual in Pakistan. Most blasphemy cases are sent to the High Court.

“Because of threats from hardliners, lower courts pass their responsibility to the higher court and then it takes years to prove the accused innocent,” said Nasir Saeed, the director of the Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement. Saeed made the comment after two Christians were sentenced to death for alleged blasphemy.

There is a total of 40 blasphemy cases pending in Pakistan, and Christians make up nearly half of them with 17 believers currently in prison in Pakistan.

Please Pray:

  • Praise God that Pervaiz Masih has been released.
  • Pray for the 17 Christians that are still in prison and awaiting a verdict for their blasphemy charges.
  • Pray for the body of Christ in Pakistan, that they will be bold in sharing Jesus despite the cost.

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