What Is the Catholic Response to Attacks on Christians and Forced Conversions in Pakistan?

Brief Overview

• Religious minorities in Pakistan, including Christians, face severe persecution, with violent attacks on churches and homes, particularly in Jaranwala, Faisalabad, in August 2023.
• Pakistan’s blasphemy laws are frequently misused to target Christians, leading to mob violence and unjust legal actions, often without proper investigation or accountability.
• Forced conversions, especially of underage Christian and Hindu girls, remain a critical issue, often disguised as marriages under Islamic law.
• The U.S. State Department has designated Pakistan as a “Country of Particular Concern” for its ongoing violations of religious freedom, including communal violence and attacks on places of worship.
• Catholic leaders, such as Bishop Azad Marshall, call for legislative reforms to address false blasphemy allegations and protect vulnerable minority communities.
• Advocates emphasize the need for constitutional changes, a crackdown on extremist groups, and policies to ensure equal citizenship for religious minorities.

Detailed Response

Historical Context of Christian Persecution in Pakistan

Pakistan’s Christian community, comprising roughly 1.6% of the country’s 241 million population, has faced systemic discrimination and violence since the nation’s founding in 1947. The establishment of Pakistan as an Islamic republic under the 1973 Constitution introduced legal frameworks that prioritize Islam, often at the expense of religious minorities. The introduction of blasphemy laws in the 1980s under General Zia-ul-Haq’s regime exacerbated tensions, as these laws imposed severe penalties, including death, for perceived insults to Islam. Between 1987 and 2016, 205 Christians were charged under these laws, despite their small demographic presence. The Catholic Church, guided by its commitment to religious freedom as articulated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2104–2109), condemns such discriminatory legal structures that undermine human dignity. These laws are often exploited to settle personal disputes, leading to mob violence and destruction of Christian properties. The Jaranwala attacks of August 16, 2023, where over 25 churches and 80 Christian homes were burned, exemplify this pattern of abuse. Catholic teaching emphasizes the right of every person to practice their faith freely, a principle rooted in Dignitatis Humanae from Vatican II. The Church views these incidents as violations of this fundamental right. The ongoing marginalization of Christians in Pakistan reflects a broader societal failure to uphold justice and equality.

The Jaranwala Attacks: A Case Study

On August 16, 2023, a mob of thousands, incited by false blasphemy allegations against two Christian brothers, attacked Christian communities in Jaranwala, Faisalabad. The accusations, later proven baseless, stemmed from a personal dispute, yet they triggered widespread violence, with 26 churches and over 80 homes vandalized or destroyed. The mob, reportedly mobilized by the far-right group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), used mosque loudspeakers to incite attacks, violating Pakistan’s own Loudspeakers Act of 2015. Catholic leaders, including Bishop Indrias Rehmat of Faisalabad, condemned the lack of accountability, noting that of the 5,213 suspects identified, only 380 were arrested, and most were released on bail or had charges dropped. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1807) underscores justice as a cardinal virtue, obligating authorities to protect the innocent and punish wrongdoers. The failure to prosecute perpetrators fosters a culture of impunity, as noted by Amnesty International. Catholic theology calls for restorative justice, urging governments to address such wrongs through fair trials and reparations. The Church also supports the resilience of the Christian community, as seen in the rededication of St. John’s Catholic Church in Jaranwala in August 2025. This event symbolized hope, yet the lack of convictions continues to fuel distrust. The Catholic response emphasizes prayer, advocacy, and solidarity with victims, aligning with Gaudium et Spes’s call to uphold human dignity in the face of injustice.

Blasphemy Laws and Their Misuse

Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, particularly sections 295-A and 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code, are central to the persecution of Christians. These laws, intended to protect Islamic sensibilities, are frequently misused to target minorities, with accusations often lacking evidence. In Jaranwala, two Christian brothers were acquitted after a court found they were framed, yet a third Christian, Ehsan Shan, was sentenced to death in July 2024 for allegedly sharing blasphemous content online. This disparity highlights a legal double standard, as noted by Amnesty International. The Catholic Church, referencing CCC 1738, affirms that freedom of conscience must be respected, and laws that coerce or punish unjustly violate this principle. The Church advocates for the repeal of such laws, as they enable mob violence and suppress religious freedom. Catholic social teaching, rooted in Pacem in Terris, calls for legal systems to protect all citizens equally, regardless of faith. The misuse of blasphemy laws often stems from personal vendettas, as seen in Jaranwala, where a Christian was accused of forging blasphemous letters. The Church encourages dialogue with Muslim leaders to foster mutual respect and curb extremist rhetoric. Catholic organizations, like Aid to the Church in Need, provide moral and material support to affected communities, emphasizing the need for systemic reform.

Forced Conversions: A Growing Concern

Forced conversions, particularly of underage Christian and Hindu girls, represent a grave violation of religious freedom in Pakistan. These conversions are often disguised as marriages under Islamic law, exploiting vulnerable girls from impoverished minority communities. Reports indicate that thousands of such cases occur annually, with little legal recourse for victims. The Catholic Church, guided by CCC 160 and CCC 2106, upholds the inviolability of personal conscience and condemns coercion in matters of faith. Bishop Azad Marshall has called for legislation to protect minor girls from such abuses, emphasizing their vulnerability. Catholic teaching stresses that marriage must be a free and mutual decision, as outlined in CCC 1625–1632. The Church views forced conversions as a form of violence against human dignity, contrary to Evangelium Vitae’s emphasis on the sanctity of life and freedom. Advocacy groups, such as the Rwadari Tehreek, demand constitutional amendments to ensure equal citizenship and protect minorities from exploitation. The Catholic response includes supporting victims through legal aid and pastoral care while urging the Pakistani government to enforce existing laws against forced marriages. This issue underscores the need for interfaith dialogue to address cultural practices that enable such abuses.

The Role of Extremist Groups

Extremist groups like Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) play a significant role in inciting violence against Christians. In Jaranwala, TLP supporters were implicated in mobilizing mobs, using mosque loudspeakers to spread inflammatory rhetoric. The Catholic Church, in line with CCC 2265, condemns violence in the name of religion and calls for peacebuilding through dialogue and mutual respect. The TLP’s actions violate Pakistan’s own laws against incitement, yet the lack of prosecutions perpetuates a cycle of violence. Catholic social teaching, as articulated in Centesimus Annus, emphasizes the state’s role in curbing extremism to protect the common good. The Church encourages collaboration with moderate Muslim leaders, some of whom sheltered Christians during the Jaranwala attacks, to foster reconciliation. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Pakistan has condemned hate speech, such as a recent cleric’s derogatory remarks calling churches “heaps of filth.” The Church advocates for a zero-tolerance policy on hate speech, aligning with CCC 2302’s call for peace. Catholic organizations also provide trauma support to affected communities, recognizing the psychological toll of such violence. Addressing extremism requires both legal reforms and grassroots efforts to promote interfaith harmony.

Government Response and Accountability

The Pakistani government’s response to attacks on Christians has been widely criticized as inadequate. Despite promises of compensation and rebuilding after the Jaranwala attacks, 40% of affected Christian families are still awaiting funds, and many repairs are substandard. The Catholic Church, referencing CCC 1907, teaches that governments must ensure justice and provide for the common good, including protecting minority rights. The failure to prosecute perpetrators, with over 90% of Jaranwala suspects still at large, undermines this obligation. Catholic leaders, including Bishop Indrias Rehmat, have called for a judicial inquiry into the Jaranwala incident to ensure accountability. The Supreme Court of Pakistan rejected a police report on the attacks as inadequate, yet no convictions have followed. The Church supports advocacy efforts, such as those by the Minorities Alliance Pakistan, to pressure the government for reform. Catholic teaching emphasizes the importance of a just legal system, as seen in CCC 1910, which promotes solidarity and fairness. The Church also encourages Christians to engage in peaceful protests, as seen in recent sit-ins in Faisalabad, to demand justice. These efforts align with the Church’s mission to uphold human rights and dignity in the face of systemic failures.

The Catholic Church’s Call for Legislative Reform

The Catholic Church in Pakistan has consistently advocated for legislative reforms to protect religious minorities. Bishop Azad Marshall has urged the government to enact laws against false blasphemy allegations and forced conversions. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1906–1909) emphasizes the state’s duty to promote the common good, which includes safeguarding the rights of all citizens. The Church supports constitutional amendments to ensure equal citizenship, as proposed by the Rwadari Tehreek. Such reforms would align with Dignitatis Humanae’s affirmation of religious freedom as a fundamental human right. The Church also calls for the repeal of blasphemy laws, which are often weaponized against minorities. Catholic social teaching encourages governments to foster an environment where all faiths can coexist peacefully, as articulated in Nostra Aetate. The Church collaborates with human rights organizations to advocate for these changes, emphasizing the need for fair trials and protection from extremist violence. The lack of progress on these reforms, despite promises from Pakistani officials, highlights the urgency of the Church’s advocacy. Catholic leaders remain committed to dialogue with policymakers to achieve meaningful change.

The Role of International Advocacy

The international community has played a significant role in highlighting the plight of Christians in Pakistan. The U.S. State Department’s designation of Pakistan as a “Country of Particular Concern” since 2002 underscores ongoing violations of religious freedom. The Catholic Church, guided by CCC 1915, supports global efforts to promote solidarity and justice for oppressed communities. Organizations like Amnesty International and Aid to the Church in Need have documented the Jaranwala attacks and called for thorough investigations. The Church encourages Catholics worldwide to pray for persecuted Christians, as emphasized in Lumen Gentium. International pressure has prompted Pakistani officials to promise action, though results remain limited. The Church also supports initiatives like the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom’s reports, which highlight the need for reform. Catholic social teaching calls for global cooperation to protect human rights, as seen in Pacem in Terris. The Church urges Catholics to advocate for policy changes in Pakistan through petitions and awareness campaigns. This international solidarity strengthens the local Church’s efforts to seek justice and reform.

The Church’s Pastoral Response

The Catholic Church in Pakistan provides extensive pastoral care to communities affected by violence and persecution. After the Jaranwala attacks, priests and lay leaders offered spiritual support, counseling, and material aid to displaced families. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2447) emphasizes works of mercy as a response to suffering, guiding the Church’s efforts. Bishop Indrias Rehmat’s rededication of St. John’s Church in August 2025 symbolized hope and resilience for the community. The Church also organizes prayer services and community gatherings to foster unity and healing. Catholic organizations, such as the National Commission for Justice and Peace, provide legal aid to victims of blasphemy accusations and forced conversions. These efforts align with Gaudium et Spes’s call to accompany those who suffer injustice. The Church encourages Christians to remain steadfast in faith, drawing on Romans 8:35–39 to affirm that no persecution can separate them from Christ’s love. Pastoral care also includes educating communities about their rights and advocating for systemic change. This holistic approach reflects the Church’s commitment to both spiritual and practical support.

Interfaith Dialogue and Reconciliation

The Catholic Church in Pakistan actively promotes interfaith dialogue to address religious tensions. Some Muslims sheltered Christians during the Jaranwala attacks, demonstrating the potential for coexistence. The Church, guided by Nostra Aetate, encourages mutual respect and understanding among faiths. Catholic leaders engage with moderate Muslim clerics to counter extremist narratives and promote peace. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 841) acknowledges the shared heritage of monotheistic faiths, providing a foundation for dialogue. The Church condemns hate speech, such as the recent remarks by a Muslim cleric against churches, and calls for accountability. Interfaith initiatives, supported by organizations like the Pakistan Ulema Council, aim to reduce communal violence. The Church also encourages Catholics to pray for their Muslim neighbors, as seen in John 17:20–21, which emphasizes unity. These efforts seek to build bridges and foster a culture of tolerance. Despite challenges, the Church remains committed to reconciliation as a path to lasting peace.

The Impact on Christian Communities

The Jaranwala attacks and ongoing persecution have profoundly affected Pakistan’s Christian communities. Many Christians lost homes, livelihoods, and personal belongings, leading to economic hardship and displacement. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2402–2406) emphasizes the right to private property and economic security, which these attacks violated. Christian workers face discrimination in workplaces, and children experience bullying in schools, as reported by community leaders. The Church responds by providing material aid and advocating for fair treatment. The trauma of violence has also left psychological scars, prompting the Church to offer counseling and spiritual support. Catholic social teaching, rooted in Rerum Novarum, calls for solidarity with the marginalized, guiding these efforts. The resilience of Christians, seen in their continued worship and community rebuilding, reflects Matthew 5:10–12’s call to persevere in persecution. The Church also supports education initiatives to empower young Christians and combat systemic inequality. These efforts aim to restore dignity and hope to affected communities.

The Role of Catholic Social Teaching

Catholic social teaching provides a framework for addressing the persecution of Christians in Pakistan. The principles of human dignity, solidarity, and the common good, as outlined in CCC 1905–1912, guide the Church’s response. These teachings emphasize the inherent worth of every person, regardless of faith, and the need for societies to protect all citizens. The Church calls for policies that uphold religious freedom and equality, aligning with Dignitatis Humanae. The principle of subsidiarity encourages local communities to take initiative, as seen in Christian protests for justice. The Church also promotes the preferential option for the poor, supporting impoverished Christian communities affected by violence. Gaudium et Spes calls for active engagement in addressing social injustices, inspiring advocacy efforts. The Church’s commitment to these principles drives its calls for legal reform and interfaith dialogue. Catholic social teaching also encourages global Catholics to support their persecuted brothers and sisters through prayer and advocacy. This framework ensures a comprehensive response to the challenges faced by Pakistan’s Christians.

The Need for Constitutional Reform

Advocates, including Catholic leaders, call for constitutional amendments to ensure equal citizenship for religious minorities in Pakistan. The 1973 Constitution’s prioritization of Islam has marginalized non-Muslims, limiting their rights. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1907) teaches that laws must serve the common good, which includes equality for all. The Church supports proposals to amend the Constitution to remove discriminatory provisions and protect religious freedom. Samson Salamat of the Rwadari Tehreek has emphasized this need, highlighting the systemic discrimination faced by Christians. Catholic social teaching, as seen in Pacem in Terris, advocates for legal systems that uphold justice and human rights. The Church also calls for stronger enforcement of existing laws against hate speech and violence. Constitutional reform would align Pakistan with international human rights standards, as urged by the U.S. State Department. The Church encourages Catholics to engage in advocacy for these changes, drawing on 1 Peter 2:13–17’s call to respect just authority. This reform is essential for creating a society where Christians can live without fear.

The Global Catholic Response

The global Catholic Church has responded to the persecution of Christians in Pakistan with prayer, advocacy, and material support. The Vatican has consistently called for religious freedom worldwide, as articulated in Dignitatis Humanae. Catholic organizations like Aid to the Church in Need provide funding for rebuilding churches and supporting victims. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1926) emphasizes global solidarity, urging Catholics to stand with persecuted communities. Papal statements have condemned violence against religious minorities, calling for dialogue and justice. Catholics worldwide are encouraged to pray for Pakistan’s Christians, drawing on James 5:16’s emphasis on the power of prayer. The Church also supports international advocacy efforts, such as those by the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. These efforts aim to pressure Pakistan’s government to enact reforms. The global Catholic community’s response reflects a commitment to universal human dignity. This solidarity strengthens the resolve of Pakistan’s Christians to persevere in faith.

The Role of Prayer and Hope

Prayer remains a cornerstone of the Catholic response to persecution in Pakistan. The Church encourages the faithful to pray for victims, perpetrators, and policymakers, as seen in 1 Timothy 2:1–2. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2634–2636) emphasizes intercessory prayer as a means of seeking justice and peace. Prayer services in Pakistan, such as those led by Bishop Indrias Rehmat, foster hope and resilience among Christians. The Church also promotes the Rosary and other devotions to seek divine protection for persecuted communities. Catholic teaching views hope as a theological virtue (CCC 1817–1821), sustaining believers in times of trial. Prayer initiatives, supported by global Catholics, create a spiritual network of solidarity. The Church also encourages fasting as a form of penance and intercession for justice. These spiritual practices complement advocacy and practical support, offering a holistic response. The Church’s emphasis on prayer and hope empowers Christians to face persecution with courage and faith.

Challenges in Achieving Justice

Achieving justice for Pakistan’s Christians remains a significant challenge due to systemic issues. The lack of convictions in the Jaranwala attacks, with most suspects released on bail, reflects a defective judicial system. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1807) emphasizes justice as essential for societal harmony, yet Pakistan’s legal system often fails minorities. Police investigations are frequently inadequate, as noted by the Supreme Court’s rejection of a Jaranwala report. Witnesses face intimidation, discouraging participation in trials, as reported by Father Khalid Rashid Asi. The Church calls for independent investigations to ensure fairness, aligning with CCC 1910’s call for just institutions. Political reluctance to confront extremist groups further hinders progress. The Church supports advocacy groups demanding accountability and transparency in the legal process. Catholic social teaching urges persistence in seeking justice, as seen in Luke 18:1–8. These challenges highlight the need for sustained pressure on Pakistan’s government to protect minority rights.

The Path Forward

The Catholic Church envisions a path forward that combines advocacy, dialogue, and spiritual resilience. Legislative reforms, including the repeal of blasphemy laws and protections against forced conversions, are critical priorities. The Church, guided by CCC 1905–1912, calls for policies that promote the common good and equality. Interfaith dialogue with moderate Muslims can reduce tensions and foster mutual respect. The Church also supports education and economic empowerment for Christian communities to combat systemic marginalization. Global advocacy, backed by Catholic organizations, will continue to pressure Pakistan for change. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1927) emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in upholding human rights. The Church encourages Christians to remain peaceful yet vocal in their demands for justice, as seen in recent protests. Prayer and solidarity will sustain the community’s hope, rooted in Romans 15:13. The Catholic response remains steadfast in seeking a just and peaceful future for Pakistan’s Christians.

Conclusion

The persecution of Christians in Pakistan, exemplified by the Jaranwala attacks and forced conversions, demands a robust Catholic response grounded in faith and action. The Church condemns violence and discrimination, advocating for legislative reforms to protect religious freedom. Catholic social teaching, rooted in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1905–1912), guides efforts to uphold human dignity and justice. The Church supports victims through pastoral care, legal aid, and interfaith dialogue while urging the global community to act. Prayer and hope, as theological virtues, sustain Pakistan’s Christians in their trials. The Church calls for accountability, equal citizenship, and an end to extremist violence. By combining spiritual resilience with practical advocacy, the Catholic Church seeks to address the systemic issues facing Pakistan’s Christians. The path forward requires persistence, solidarity, and a commitment to peace. The Church remains dedicated to supporting its faithful in Pakistan, drawing on Matthew 25:40 to care for the least among them. This multifaceted response reflects the Church’s mission to promote justice and love in a broken world.