Appeal for prayers after Pakistan church stormed

The Bishop of Peshawar in Pakistan is asking Christians to pray after a church was destroyed.

According to Anglican Alliance, thousands of people stormed the compound in Mardan, near Peshawar last week.

They burnt down the church and destroyed the homes of two priests and the headteacher of the church school.

The attackers also looted newly installed computers from the school before setting it on fire.

No one was harmed in the attack but Bishop Humphrey Peters said the damage had been "very severe".

"We will need to rebuild. We are asking for people around the world to keep us in your prayers," he said.

The Moderator of the Church of Pakistan, Most Rev Samuel Azariah told the Anglican Alliance that the attack would be "very damaging" to relations between communities in Pakistan.

“The government and faith leaders in Pakistan have a role to play in educating people that they have the right to protest, but to damage property and terrify people in this way is completely wrong. The government and faith leaders should provide the lead in preventing attacks," he said.

News
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'

Reform MP Danny Kruger has spoken of the need for Britain to once more assert itself as a  country with a long and rich Christian Heritage.

400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions
400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions

Sex selective abortions appear to be taking place within the Indian community, data suggests.

Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity
Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity

Community pantries across the UK have recorded their one millionth visit, as new research suggests the membership-based food model is helping thousands of households reduce food insecurity, cut costs and prevent them from falling into extreme hardship.

Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India
Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India

India has witnessed a blend of joyful Christmas celebrations in many parts of the country, alongside reports of hate, hostility, and attacks on Christians this season, particularly in northern and central regions.