News Desk
Peshawar, KP:
On September 22, 2024, the Christian community of Pakistan gathered to mark the 11th anniversary of the devastating twin suicide blasts that shook All Saints Church, Peshawar, on this day in 2013. The tragic attack claimed 81 lives and left many others severely injured, some of whom later succumbed to their wounds.
The attack took place just as the congregation had finished their Sunday service and were exchanging greetings in the church’s courtyard. Two suicide bombers detonated their explosives, turning a moment of fellowship into a scene of horror and chaos. The victims, who came from all walks of life, are remembered not only for their faith but also for the sacrifice they made on that fateful day.
To honor the martyrs, a special mass was held at All Saints Church today. Reverend Bishop Humphrey Sarfaraz Peters, Bishop of Peshawar, led the congregation in prayers and remembrance. In his address, he called All Saints Church a “blessed church” that has always been at the forefront of sacrifice, with its people etched in the hearts and minds of the Christian community, both in Pakistan and beyond.
“Those who lost their lives and those who survived the attack will forever be remembered,” Bishop Peters said. “Their faith, courage, and resilience continue to inspire the Church, and their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
He also emphasized that despite the many challenges faced by Christians in Pakistan, the community remains steadfast in its commitment to the nation. “We will continue to pray for the safety and prosperity of Pakistan,” he declared. “Christians have been serving this country in various fields – from education and healthcare to defense – for more than seven decades, and we will continue to do so.”
The anniversary of the All Saints Church attack remains a somber occasion, but it also serves as a testament to the strength of those who endured, and to the memory of those whose lives were tragically cut short.