Pakistan
GOVERNMENT: Federal parliamentary republic
POPULATION: 248 million
RELIGION: Islam (official and majority Sunni; Shia minority)
LANGUAGE: Urdu (national), English (official); Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, and others
CURRENCY: Pakistani Rupee (PKR)
CLIMATE: Mostly arid to semi-arid; temperate along coastline, cold in mountainous regions
Pray with us
Pray for the persecuted Church. Ask God to grow and strengthen believers who face persecution under restrictive laws. In the midst of poverty, illiteracy, and limited resources, pray for boldness, unity, and the raising up of mature, Spirit-led leaders who can disciple the next generation.
Pray for the government and justice system. Ask God to expose people and dismantle systems that empower extremism, misuse laws, and promote corruption. Pray for leaders to govern with wisdom, fairness, and courage to value people, regardless of faith or background.
Pray for the youth, especially those drawn to action sports as a means of purpose and identity. Ask God to use these growing communities as bridges for Gospel proclamation and God’s hope and transformation in a place desperate for light.
THE REALITY
At large, hospitality, generosity, family and a rich tradition of storytelling are integral parts of Pakistani culture. Deeply shaped by fundamentalist Islam, terrorist organizations also greatly influence the country and are allowed to operate freely. Pakistan remains one of the most challenging countries in the world to follow Jesus. Loyalty to one’s faith is often intertwined with national pride, and becoming a follower of Christ is viewed not only as betraying Islam but also the family and the country. The reality is countrywide persecution for religious minorities, especially Christians, who experience discrimination, false accusations under blasphemy laws, burning of churches, and violent attacks.
Even in the face of adversity and spiritual darkness, God is moving as the Church continues to grow quietly. While poverty and lack of discipleship can be limiting, believers are passionately committed to seeing transformation in their families, churches, and communities. At great risk, they follow Christ and humbly seek to reflect His love to everyone around them.
Young Pakistanis are desperately seeking purpose and something to devote their lives to. Although the country is scarce on surfing equipment, coastline communities are forging a strong surf culture. Grassroots groups of local surfers, such as “Surfers of Buleji,” are embracing the sport and the community that comes with sharing a common passion. With its first public skatepark opening in 2023 and many DIY parks popping up, the skateboarding community is also attracting open-minded youth. The presence of action sports ministries could make all the difference as young people consistently gather and connect because of common interests. With a love for storytelling, believers have an open door to share the Gospel story and allow God to soften and open hearts.
