“After my husband’s death, life became harder, more laborious. It was very difficult to raise our children without his support, so I decided to get out of the house and found work as a maid. Being a woman, I face many hurdles and challenges while on the job; it is hard to provide necessities for the family."
Catholics make up only a tiny minority in Pakistan: just a little over 1% of a total population which is 96% Muslim. Generally, Christians belong to the lowest levels of society and are not even viewed as full and equal citizens by most Pakistanis. They face abuse, discrimination and even persecution, including violent attacks.
“Because of the good people God sent to us, I am able to participate in a pre-medical program at a college. I face religious discrimination there, as the school is Muslim, but I know that God is with me. ... It is my deep desire to become a doctor and help the poor, so no one dies like my father did.”
"Our people have a very simple but very strong faith. Despite the problems of access to education and the lack of opportunities, the people are faithful to the Gospel, and our churches are full. Some 90 percent of Catholic Christians attend Mass every Sunday, and many also go to Mass during the week."
"May our Lord bless and protect Asia and her family and keep all our Christian brothers and sisters safe here in Pakistan.”