In Pakistan, Christian women, particularly those living in slums, face systemic discrimination and oppression. With limited access to education and economic opportun...
For many Christian women in Pakistan, venturing outside their homes is a risk. Persecution is not just an abstract concept—it is a daily reality.
Persecution of Christians is deeply entrenched in societal and systemic discrimination, particularly in slums where Christians are seen as second-class. This persecution is directly tied to the plight of Christian women, who are often forced to work as maids in Muslim households due to a lack of education and employment opportunities.
This environment exposes them to abuse, oppression, and violation of their rights. Muslim employers frequently mistreat these women, subjecting them to mental and physical abuse, including sexual violence.
Voice of the Martyrs Australia is funding a Vocational Training Centre (VTC), for women. It offers classes in tailoring and beautician services. This enables the students to start small businesses and become self-reliant.
Priscilla’s Testimony: Overcoming Fear Through Faith
“I was only eight when my mother passed away. My Abu (father), spent most of his life providing for us, but last year, he lost his job. Over the years, his company gradually replaced most of its staff as it aimed to employ more Muslim workers. This eventually led to him losing his job after 22 years of dedicated service,” shares Priscilla, a sewing class student. “I want to become my Abu’s right hand and share his responsibilities. The VTC felt like an answer to my prayers. Even though I travel three kilometres every day, I didn’t want to waste this opportunity.”
Priscilla’s journey has not been without trials. On 6 December, while walking home, a man deliberately her with his motorbike. She was left with injuries that needed stitches on both sides of her head.
Despite this brutal attack, Priscilla remains undeterred. “During my walks, I keep reciting Psalm 23: ‘The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want…’ until I reach the safe walls of the VTC. I believe in my heart that God’s invisible walls of safety surround me everywhere.”
Through the VTC, women like Priscilla are not just learning a trade but also finding strength in their faith in the Lord and standing resilient in the face of persecution.
Submit a Prayer