Today, we share a story of Faith, Commitment, and Trust. This is the story of Naveed Anjum, our dedicated Head of Central Punjab, Pakistan, for the Emergency Committee to Save the Persecuted and Enslaved, who has long been a ray of hope for enslaved Christians and abducted girls. His commitment to rescuing the oppressed has made him a target of Islamic extremist groups, and recently, the threats escalated to a dangerous level, forcing him to flee his homeland.
The Price of Compassion:
In 2022, Naveed’s commitment to his cause came at a devastating cost. During a rescue operation, he and his team were brutally attacked by a kiln owner and his associates. The assault left Naveed with a life-altering injury – the loss of his right leg. However, this setback did not deter his spirit. After a recovery, Naveed redirected his efforts toward preaching and evangelism, reaching out to believers and non-believers.
A New Chapter of Ministry: Persecution and Flight
Naveed’s new role proved to be even more impactful. His powerful teachings resonated with many, leading several people to accept Jesus Christ. Among those touched by Naveed’s message were (Name changed) Muhammad and Mariyam, a Muslim couple from the Orthodox Pathan Muslim family. Their conversion marked a significant moment in Naveed’s ministry but set dangerous events in motion.
When Muhammad and Mariyam’s family discovered their conversion to Christianity, the couple faced severe consequences. They were tortured, and Muhammad was even shot in an attempt to force them to revert to Islam. Desperate and in fear for their lives, the couple, along with their three sons, managed to escape and sought refuge with Naveed.
The situation quickly escalated as Muhammad and Mariyam’s family traced their conversion back to Naveed. Threats against Naveed and his family intensified, demanding information about Muhammad and his family’s whereabouts. The couple and their children were placed in a safe house, but the danger grew.
As the threats reached an alarming level, the Emergency Committee made the difficult decision to evacuate Naveed and the converted family from Pakistan. Through careful planning and divine protection, they successfully relocated to Southeast Asia, where they applied for asylum with the UNHCR.
The Ongoing Struggle:
Naveed’s story is an example of the religious persecution that continues to plague Pakistan. The country’s blasphemy laws and societal pressures often lead to violence against religious minorities and those who choose to convert. Despite the challenges, brave Christians like Naveed continue to risk their lives to protect the persecuted and enslaved.
As Naveed and the Converted Christian family Of Muhammad are in the process of starting their new lives in a safer environment, the Emergency Committee to Save the Persecuted and Enslaved continues its vital work in Pakistan.
Please continue to pray for our courageous team members like Naveed, who risk everything to save the persecuted and enslaved. Their bravery is a testament to God’s work in even the darkest circumstances. On the front lines, they face danger daily in their mission to protect the vulnerable and spread their faith.
Original source:https://ecspe.org/a-story-of-courage-naveed-anjums-fight-for-the-persecuted-in-pakistan/
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