Sts Cyril and Methodius Orthodox Institute
29 Jul 13: Rebuilding the Joseph Colony Badami Bagh Lahore
Rebuilding the ravaged community of Joseph Colony Badami Bagh Lahore
St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Mission in Pakistan
(Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia in Pakistan)
The arson attack on the Christian settlement known as Joseph Colony Badami Bagh Lahore on 9th March 2013 brought into the news another story of religious bigotry and violence among the oppressed Christian minority in Pakistan. More than 200 houses of Christian inhabitants were set on fire by the extremist mob of around 3,000. This wanton act of violence was planned after an alleged charge of blasphemy against a Christian man Sawan Masih by a Muslim man Imran. The government of Pakistan, law enforcement agencies, electronic media and social organizations are well aware that it was a conspiracy to grab the land by the surrounding iron factory owners.
Here we would not forget to mention the daring efforts of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia in Pakistan. It is worth mentioning that after the shocking news of Joseph Colony on 9th March 2013, Fr. Cyril and Fr. Joseph immediately visited the targeted place and comforted the victims through our prayers. After a few weeks, with the help of our orthodox donors, we helped the victims by distributing food commodities and kitchen accessories. It was a generous gesture and historical step by the international Orthodox community towards the oppressed Christian minority in Pakistan.
There was an immense loss of property and the people of Joseph Colony really need financial and moral support, hence on 25th July 2013 the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia in Pakistan helped them financially through our donors. It conveys the message of love, brotherhood, peace and solidarity from the St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Mission in Pakistan. It reflects the true and pure spirit of Orthodox faith among the people. The common Christian people have now awareness about the Orthodox Church in Pakistan.
On 25th July 2013 Fr. Cyril and Fr. Joseph, beside this financial aid, arranged a prayer service in Joseph Colony and taught them about Orthodoxy. People heard it with keenness and interest. We found them strong in faith and love of Christ.
In the end we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for our generous donors who made it possible for the rehabilitation of Joseph Colony.
Asking for your holy prayer and blessings yours in Christ Jesus,
Unworthy Priest Joseph
