Pakistan

Pakistan as an independent state came into existence on August 14, 1947, when it seceded from India soon after independence from Britain. Later on, in 1971, East Pakistan seceded to become Bangladesh after a nine months–long war. Tensions with India have propelled the country into a nuclear arms race and caused armed conflict in Kashmir.

Religious minorities in Pakistan, including Christians, are sometimes subject to violence and unequal treatment due to many unjustifiable reasons. Some violence against Christian aims at targeting American interests and symbols of Western cultures, which has undoubtedly influenced the church in Pakistan in many ways. However, there is abundant evidence of peaceful coexistence among different religious groups in spite of sporadic violence and religious and ethnic conflict.

The PC(USA) works in Pakistan through mission personnel and in close cooperation with its church partners, engaging in development, educational, health and evangelistic ministries. One example is the Thal Project, which provides agricultural services to Christian and Muslim villages in the Thal Desert of north-central Pakistan. This project, established in the 1950s, works with residents to address problems not only in agriculture but also education, health, infrastructure and community participation and organization. Forman Christian College, founded in 1864 by a Presbyterian mission worker, has educated many of Pakistan’s leaders, including some influential leaders such as President Pervez Musharraf and a few other members of the cabinet. The college was nationalized in 1972 but returned in 2003 to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) after 31 years of government control.

The 2009 Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study, pp. 104-105

April 13
April 14

Pakistan Mission Network

• 2009 meeting date: Oct. 21–Oct. 22 (in conjunction with the Mission Celebration), Cincinnati, Ohio
• For information contact David Hudson

The Pakistan Mission Network is among more than 25 networks that connect Presbyterians who share a common mission interest. Most participants are involved in mission partnerships through congregations, presbyteries or synods. Network members come together to coordinate efforts, share best practices and develop strategies.

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