Prayer Requests for Lahore, Pakistan
Special Prayer Request via Assemblies of God World Fellowship: Blast in Lahore, Pakistan
March 27, 2016
“But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” … For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil” (1 Peter 3:14,17, NIV).
Pakistan has suffered from repeated terrorism attacks during the last several years, with several groups of terrorists actively seeking to establish an Islamic State.
Lahore is the capital city of the province of Punjab, the second largest metropolitan area in Pakistan, and the 18th most populous city in the world with a population of 5.143 million. It is an important historical centre in South Asia, with a rich history dating back over a millennium. Lahore is a main cultural centre of the Punjab region and Pakistan, and is the largest Punjabi city in the world. Lahore remains an economic, political, transportation, entertainment, and educational hub of Pakistan.
Overall Deaths and Injuries
Police and rescue officials confirmed at least 74 people were killed, including women and 29 children on Sunday, 27th March, 2016, when a suicide bomber detonated a device near one of the gates of the Gulshan Iqbal Park. More than 240 people were injured.
Reportedly, the attack was claimed by the Jamaatul Ahrar, affiliated with the Tehreek-i-Taliban. Iqbal Town Police Superintendent Dr. Muhammad Iqbal informed journalists that this was a suicide attack and the suspected bomber blew himself up in the parking space of the recreational park where a large number of people were present due to the weekly holiday and Easter.
Christian Deaths and Injuries
A huge Christian community was present to celebrate Easter with their families. Some 30 deaths and approximately 50 injured are reported from the Christian Community.
Praying for the comfort of families
Condemning the attack, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif called for compassionate treatment of the people injured in the blast. In a statement the prime minister said, "Terrorists have no religion, and targeting innocent people is against the teachings of Islam and all religions." The premier said such cruel acts of terrorism reflect the brutality and inhumane mindset of the terrorists.
Immediate Steps of Army, Government and Law Enforcement Agencies
The Pakistan Army held an urgent meeting of all high officials to organize search operations in the Punjab province to seek out the terrorists and their supporters. Army and law enforcement agencies have apprehended 216 suspects from different cities of Punjab province.
Prayer Requests:
Kindly keep the following points in your prayers:
Pray for the comfort for the families affected by the terrorists’ attack.
Pray for the quick recovery of the injured.
Pray for Pakistan, for the protection of the nation.
Pray for Pakistani Christians.
Special Thanks
I would like to say thanks on behalf of our Chairman to all of our brothers and sisters who love, pray for and support us for the development of our spiritual and physical lives.
May God bless you all.