Christian groups around the world have reacted with shock following news this week that a Christian woman had become the first woman to ever be given the death sentence for the crime of blasphemy in Pakistan.
Voice of the Martyrs says that while no-one sentenced to death for blasphemy in Pakistan has ever been executed, the decision could mean 37-year-old Asia Bibi spends years living in appalling conditions on death row.
The group, which supports persecuted Christians around the world, says it will appeal the decision to the High Court within a seven day deadline but adds that it could take years before an appeal is heard.
Asia, who is a mother – reportedly of as many as five children – and comes from the village of Ittanwali in Punjab Province, was arrested in June last year after she was accused of defaming Islam’s prophet, Mohammed. After a 16 month long trial, the death sentence was reportedly handed down in a local court in Sheikhupura, near Lahore, on 8th November.
Voice of the Martyrs reported that during a meeting with its workers last week, Asia told them: “It does not matter to me whether I am sentenced or whether the judge will set me free because I know that I am innocent and most of all I know that the Lord is with me. They persecuted Jesus also and the Bible says that they will persecute us as well.”
Voice of the Martyrs Australia’s youth initiative, Thirteen Three, is among those calling for Christians to pray for Asia and to share her story with others so they may do so. They are also asking them to write a letter of encouragement to her.
Brad Konemann, youth director at Thirteen Three, says it was vital people prayed now as the appeal was prepared and present it.
“By praying for Asia Bibi and other persecuted Christians, our own faith is challenged and we are encouraged to serve the Lord boldly here in Australia,” he said.
Meanwhile, Release International – Voice of the Martyrs’ sister organisation in the UK is concerned the conviction could set a dangerous precedent.
It said that as well as the death sentence, Asia was fined the equivalent of two-and-a-half years salary.
Release International’s chief executive, Andy Dipper, was quoted as saying that Pakistan had “crossed a line” in passing the death sentence on a woman for blasphemy.
The organisation is calling on Christians to sign an online petition asking the Pakistani Government to protect the rights of Christians.
• For prayer points from Voice of the Martyr’s Thirteen Three, go here.
• Release International’s online petition can be found at: www.releaseinternational.org/current
