Faith Against All Odds: Christianity In Pakistan

Being a Christian in Pakistan is a daily challenge and test of faith. Despite facing discrimination and persecution, Christianity has a long history in Pakistan and continues to grow through the faith and resilience of its followers.

In this article, I’ll highlight the history, modern challenges, and ways you can help our Christian brothers and sisters in Pakistan.

History of Christianity in Pakistan

Christianity first came to the Indus region, which is present-day Pakistan, in the time of the Apostle Thomas. He traveled through modern-day Iran and Afghanistan and arrived in Taxila, a city located near modern-day Islamabad.

During the 19th century, missionaries from different Christian denominations began arriving in Pakistan. They established schools, hospitals, and churches throughout the country. However, their presence was met with suspicion and hostility by some Muslim leaders who saw their activities as an attempt at conversion.

Is Christianity allowed in Pakistan?

It’s complicated. While the constitution of Pakistan says it allows for religious freedom and protects the rights of minorities, the reality for Christians in Pakistan is often very different.

The Islamic country has strict blasphemy laws that are often used to persecute and discriminate against religious minorities, including Christians. These laws make it a crime to insult Islam or the Prophet Muhammad, and they carry severe punishments ranging from fines to life imprisonment or even the death penalty.

WATCH: Christians in Pakistan saying “Yes” to God

What is happening to Christians in Pakistan?

Christians in Pakistan face significant persecution and discrimination on multiple fronts. Many are subjected to violent attacks, leading to injuries, deaths, and destruction of churches and Christian homes.

Blasphemy accusations often target Christians, leading to mob violence and unjust legal proceedings. In addition to physical threats, social discrimination manifests in limited job opportunities, restricted access to education, and high levels of stigma in communities.

Another major struggle Christians in Pakistan face is forced labor, trafficking, and exploitation. Christian minority groups are often forced to work in brick kilns, agricultural fields, and other menial labor jobs with little to no pay and harsh living conditions.

What is the state of Christianity in Pakistan today?

Despite facing many challenges and obstacles, Christianity continues to grow in Pakistan. There’s an estimated 2.5 million Christians in Pakistan, which is just 1% of the population. The majority of Christians reside in Punjab province, followed by Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.

In recent years, there has been a rise in underground house churches and conversions to Christianity among young people. However, these conversions are often met with backlash and violence from extremist groups and authorities.

Does Pakistan have Christian churches?

Yes, Pakistan has Christian churches, but they face many restrictions and challenges. 26 churches in Jaranwala were burnt by arsonists in 2023. Despite their oppression, churches in Pakistan have a vibrant community of believers who are determined to worship and spread the gospel, even in the midst of persecution.

Additionally, there is a lack of church buildings in Pakistan due to laws and regulations. As a result, many Christians gather in small house churches or open-air gatherings for worship.

WATCH: Inside The Persecuted Church In Pakistan

Are there any missionaries in Pakistan?

Yes, there are missionaries in Pakistan, but it’s generally limited to native missionaries. It’s illegal for foreign missionaries to proselytize in the country, but the government does allow them to help build schools and provide humanitarian aid.

We support and partner with missionaries to spread the gospel, help free slaves, and provide aid to persecuted Christians in Pakistan. Our goal is to empower and equip local believers to share the love of Christ within their communities.

How can we support Christians in Pakistan?

There are various ways to support Christians in Pakistan, including praying for them, raising awareness about their struggles, and supporting organizations that provide aid, and advocacy for persecuted Christians.

At Nations Outreach, we work closely with local partners to provide education, resources, and relief to Christians facing persecution in Pakistan. We also work to free Christian slaves and help stabilize their futures with jobs and starting businesses.