At least nine people were reportedly killed in a church bombing in Pakistan on Sunday.
Reports said two suicide bombers attacked the Bethel Memorial Methodist Church in the city of Quetta and while one was shot by security guards at the entrance to the church, the other managed to detonate his explosives inside, killing at least nine and wounding some 50 others.
Hundreds of worshippers were attending a service in the church in the lead-up to Christmas.
Security officials said a search was underway for two suspected accomplices. No-one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.
The attack was condemned by Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, and Army chief, Qamar Bajwa.
General secretary of the World Council of Churches, Rev Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, who said the attack was evidence of a “tragic disregard for human life”. “We will not allow this devastating act weaken our faith, our unity, and our common work for peace and justice in the world.”
Nasir Saeed, director of the UK-based Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS) – which supports Christians in Pakistan and advocates for religious freedom there, expressed his sandess and anger at the attack.
“Attacking worshipers, especially over the Christmas season, is an act of cowardice. It is condemnable and such hate and violence cannot help anyone to make a place in heaven.”
While praising the actions of security guards in attempting to stop the attack, Mr Saeed said the government has failed Christians in Pakistan.
“The majority of Christians are disappointed and they don’t see their future in Pakistan. Many are fleeing the country they struggled for with the Quaid e Azam the founder of Pakistan.”
He called for heightened security around Christian towns and churches in Pakistan in last few days before Christmas and demanded the injured be provided with the best treatment and families compensated.
