On Monday, April 1st, the BACA team visited the Presbyterian Church in Gujar Khan as a show of support after a fire on Good Friday (click here).
What our team learned was troubling and we share that report with you while we await police findings.
When our team arrived at the Gujar Khan church, Javed Masih, a church elder, spoke about the church’s significance to the local Christian community, particularly during events like Easter and Christmas. He explained that the weekly attendance at the church was around 500, but on Easter, it would increase to at least 1000.
Trouble began on Good Friday, March 29th, when the plaza owner next to the church, Muhammad Sheikh Ahmad, clashed with the church’s security over tents set up for the occasion to allow for overflow.
Muhammad Sheikh Ahmad, the plaza owner, arrived with his security guards and instructed the youth members of the church, who were standing outside for security purposes, to remove the tents from the front of the plaza gate. This sparked a heated argument between the church security and the plaza owner.
“We informed him that the tents were temporary and would be removed within two hours,” Pastor Samsoon conveyed to BACA.
Although the plaza owner eventually agreed to allow the tents to remain, his words were laced with hostility and anger. “You’ve set up the tents this time, but it won’t happen again,” he declared.
This statement was made in the presence of the police official, Muhammad Akbar, the SHO (Station House Officer) of the Gujar Khan Police Station.
After the church service, the congregation returned to their respective homes.
The next day, at 3:30 am, Muhammad Jahangir, the owner of Gujar Khan Pharmacy, alerted Javed Masih about the flames that were engulfing the Church building. Javed Masih informed BACA of his prompt action, stating, “Within 10 minutes, my family and I were on-site.”
“The fire had already caused significant damage to the Church property before the tireless efforts of the firefighters managed to extinguish it,” he continued.
Police officials and forensic experts arrived at the scene to collect evidence and determine the cause of the fire.
On April 1st, the BACA team visited the church and met with Assistant Pastor Samsoon Masih (32 yrs) and church elder Javed Masih. The church administration refrained from accusing anyone. Javed Masih stated, “We cannot make accusations as we haven’t witnessed the event. We cannot confirm whether it was a short circuit or if someone from outside used chemicals to ignite the fire. We prefer not to draw conclusions until we receive the forensic report that we’re eagerly awaiting.”
However, there are compelling pieces of evidence that suggest the fire at the church was deliberately set by a human. Pastor Samsoon informed us that a window, typically secured with a wooden sheet, was found open. Additionally, the electric wiring inside remained undamaged, indicating no accidental electrical malfunction.
“We have already notified the police, but they’ve instructed us to await the forensic department’s report, expected after April 15th,” Pastor Samsoon Masih disclosed.
He further emphasized the church’s historical significance, serving the congregation since 1932. The mud roof was replaced with a slab two years ago, funded by the generous offerings and tithes of the church members, who adhere to Biblical teachings on giving.
Edward Masih, our field officer, met with local police who promised a thorough investigation and acknowledged community concerns. They’ve increased patrols during Easter to reassure local Christians and restore peace.
Responding to inquiries about the extent of the damage, Pastor Samsoon stated that the church suffered an estimated loss of around Rs. 1,500,000 (£4,271).
The British Asian Christian Association has launched an appeal to raise funds for the repair of the church. If you wish to contribute to this cause, you can donate (here). Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference in restoring this cherished place of worship. Thank you for your generosity and support.
Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee for British Asian Christian Association, said:
“As a trustee, I am deeply saddened by the tragic event that befell this beloved church.
“While it is too early to apportion blame, the sense of fear and vulnerability among Christians since the incident is palpable.
“Beyond the immediate concern for the church’s repair, we must address the broader issues of religious intolerance and safety for minority communities.
“Our solidarity and support are more crucial than ever as we strive to rebuild not just a physical structure but also the sense of security and peace within this frightened community.”
