Event sponsored by Diocese of Saskatoon, Rock of Ages Church, Knights of Columbus, and Friends of Pakistan

Prairie Messenger
SASKATOON (CCN)



An evening of awareness and fundraising was held March 6 in support of persecuted Christians around the world.

Proceeds from the event went toward a newly-established start-up fund to assist parishes interested in sponsoring refugees. The fund was named in honour of Victor and Lucille Granger of St. Bruno Parish in Bruno, Sask., sponsors of the dinner.

The Bruno couple sponsored the new fund as a way to respond to the refugee crisis, in which millions are fleeing from violence and persecution around the world, explained Victor. “We decided this was a way we could help out, and encourage parishes that can undertake sponsorships.”

“This fund will provide seed money to assist parishes in beginning the process of refugee sponsorship,” said Myron Rogal of the diocesan Justice and Peace Office. “This is such an important area of need in our society.”

East Indian cuisine, door prizes, displays, entertainment, children’s activities, videos, and a program presenting information about the persecution and violence experienced by Christians in Pakistan were features of the third annual event, sponsored this year by the Diocese of Saskatoon, Rock of Ages Church, Knights of Columbus Council #8215, and the Friends of Pakistan.

Nadeem Imtiaz Bhatti of Friends of Pakistan described life in Pakistan under Islamic blasphemy laws which permit widespread persecution of religious minorities.

He said that the dire situation facing religious minorities in Pakistan is not adequately recognized by the world. At the same time, “Even super powers find it hard to stop these brutal attacks,” he said. “Pakistan’s blasphemy laws are used as an excuse to attack, persecute, and terrorize Christians.”

Many Pakistani Christians have fled the country to escape persecution, he said. Thousands have sought asylum in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Thailand, and endure heartbreaking situations.

“Many times they are not allowed to work or to attend school” or are kept in migration detention centres. “I plead with all churches,” said Bhatti: “please sponsor refugees from these countries. Your help will change people’s lives.”