"Pakistani Catholics Defiantly Gather for Mass Outside Charred Church Amidst Recent Mob Attacks"

Over 700 Catholics gathered to celebrate Mass outside the burned St. Paul Catholic Church in Jaranwala, Pakistan, just four days after a mob of Islamist extremists destroyed over 30 churches and 800 homes. The mob attack was sparked by unverified accusations of blasphemy against two Christians. Despite the devastation, no Christians were reported killed, and many were able to flee their homes in time. The Christians in Jaranwala have responded to the crisis with bravery, holding Mass despite threats and cursing from some local Muslims. Pakistan's blasphemy laws and the country's disregard for religious rights have made the plight of Christians increasingly difficult.