Taliban Kidnap Young Disciple of Christ


Aman Ullah (second from left)
Photo: Assist News

A 16-year-old Christian convert from Islam by the name of Aman Ullah was kidnapped by the Taliban on May 25th in Peshawar, the heart of Pakistan's North-West Frontier Province. "We don't know which of the 32 different Taliban groups operating both in Afghanistan and Pakistan is responsible," says John Taimoor, founder of Crossbearers ministry. "My team, workers and disciples from Muslim backgrounds are facing pressures from many sides and physical persecution." (For previous reports of persecution in Pakistan, please go to the Pakistan Country Report.)

The young kidnap victim came to Christ about a year ago, and he has already memorized the books of John and Ephesians in the Bible. His goal is to memorize the entire New Testament since he had memorized the Quran as a young person. "He is very dear to me," Taimoor shares. "'Aman Ullah' means 'peace of God' in Arabic, Persian, Urdu and Pushto languages," he adds. "He is a diamond, very dedicated and brilliant.... He made public statements and gave his testimony."

Taimoor asks for prayers for his ardent young disciple. "We are looking to our Saviour who is able to save us to the uttermost but we also look to our friends for prayer and what God places on their hearts!"

Pray for Aman's protection, asking for favour among his captors. In fact, while waiting for his safe release, may this young disciple be anointed as God's spokesperson in their lives, helping them to realize their need of Jesus as Saviour and Lord. Also ask God to protect and minister to all who are faithfully serving Him in Pakistan.

  • Current Ministry Projects

    VOMC partners to train Christian women in sewing skills throughout Pakistan to provide a sustainable source of income for their families and encourage them in their faith and witness for Christ.

    Project Funds: Families of Martyrs, Women’s Ministry

  • Country Information

    Population
    247,653,551 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Punjabi (44.7), Pashtun [Pathan] (15.4), Sindhi (14.1), Saraiki (8.4) Muhajirs (7.6) Balochi (3.6), Other (6.3)

    Religion (%)
    Islam (96.5), Other - Christian and Hindu (3.5)

    Leader
    President Asif Ali Zardari (2024)

    Government type
    Federal parliamentary republic

    Legal system
    Common law system with Islamic law influence

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Pakistan

    Pray that amendments will be made to Pakistan's existing blasphemy laws so that the country's citizens – including its children – will be protected from injustice and abuse. May our Lord's mercy and justice prevail, not only in the judiciary system but also in the hearts of the country's militants. Ask Him to transform their "hearts of stone" into hearts that are receptive to His love, mercy and the workings of His Holy Spirit – not only for the purpose of protecting the Christian minority but also for the salvation of their own eternal souls.

Pakistan News

  • Justice Delayed in Jaranwala
    Furniture and possessions are strewn on a street. Some of them are burning.
    The riots in 2023.
    Photo: Morning Star News

    Incensed by allegations of blasphemy against two falsely accused Christian brothers, thousands of angry people stormed a Christian colony in Jaranwala, Punjab, on August 16th, 2023. The mob destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses before the violence was eventually brought under control. (Video footage of the attack is available here.)

  • Catholic Pilgrim Killed During Van Attack
    Afzal Masih is surrounded by mourners. One woman's hands are gently touching the wraps covering him.
    Afzal Masih, surrounded by his loved ones.
    Photo: Morning Star News

    In the early morning hours of September 7th, a van carrying as many as 18 Catholics was travelling to a pilgrimage site in Mariamabad when three young men on motorbikes intercepted the vehicle by swerving in front of it. The motorcyclists had noticed a cross and Christian posters on the outside of the travelling van.

  • Delayed Investigation After Attack on Christian Woman
    A very dark room is dimly lit by a single window in the corner. A woman is silhouetted against the window.
     

    A horrific attack on a young Christian mother has once again exposed the severe forms of persecution experienced by religious minorities in Pakistan. On June 11th, Sheeza Bibi was brutally raped by three men while her three-year-old daughter, Dua, watched in terror. The incident was clearly premeditated.

  • Court Decisions Render Justice for Christians
    Adil Babar is standing outside.
    Adil Babar
    Photo: Morning Star News

    Christians in Pakistan often encounter intense opposition, particularly through the country's legal system. However, three recent court rulings have brought about a measure of relief and a renewed hope for justice.