Pakistan: 1,500 Christians protest seizure of property by authorities

 (AP)

Christians in Pakistan have protested against the government of Punjab over the seizure of Christian property.

The Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS) reports that St Francis High School in Lahore is the latest in a string of properties to have been taken over by the Punjab government.

Pakistani Christians have told the organisation that the Punjab government is acting like a "land mafia", underpinned with support by militant groups.

"This is not the only property, but have grabbed over 10 big Christian properties including, church, schools, graveyards and hospitals in Punjab," CLAAS said in a report.

The protest was joined by 1,500 Christians, including the Archbishop of Lahore, Sebastian Francis Shaw.

It was staged after a meeting between Christian leaders and the Lahore Police District Coordination Officer about the return of St Francis School to the Catholic Diocese of Lahore.

CLAAS says the Christian leaders resorted to protesting after the police failed to look into the issue.

They are now threatening to stage a sit-in protest in front of the governor's house and organise a nationwide protest if no action is taken to restore St Francis School to the diocese.

News
Trump forms Religious Liberty Commission to address 'emerging threats' First Amendment rights
Trump forms Religious Liberty Commission to address 'emerging threats' First Amendment rights

In a new executive action, President Donald Trump has established a new Religious Liberty Commission to bolster protections against “emerging threats” to the US’s longstanding tradition of faith-based freedoms. 

Leviticus: the joyful middle book of the Torah
Leviticus: the joyful middle book of the Torah

Hebrew scholar and Jewish academic Irene Lancaster reflects on Leviticus, holiness and loving your neighbour. 

'The Light He Left Behind': Martin Scorsese unveils new documentary featuring final interview with Pope Francis
'The Light He Left Behind': Martin Scorsese unveils new documentary featuring final interview with Pope Francis

Acclaimed filmmaker Martin Scorsese has announced a forthcoming documentary that will showcase the final on-camera interview with the late Pope Francis, capturing the pontiff’s enduring message of compassion, creativity, and cross-cultural dialogue.

5 things to know about Pope Leo XIV
5 things to know about Pope Leo XIV

Perhaps the most notable aspect of Prevost’s ascension to the papacy is his background.