April 20: Day of prayer and fasting for Asia Bibi in Pakistan

The Masihi Foundation, which advocates for marginalized people in Pakistan, has proclaimed April 20 as a day of prayer and fasting dedicated to Asia Bibi. The Christian woman is in prison, having been sentenced to death for blasphemy. She denies the charge. The Catholic Church in Pakistan is supporting the initiative.

“We can’t fight the blasphemy law…because we are such a small minority,” says Father Mario Angelo Rodrigues, the National Director for Pakistan of the Pontifical Mission Society, “The best thing is to storm the heavens.”

Father Rodrigues says the church around the world can help Christians in Pakistan.

“The Christians of Pakistan and the Christians of the world can join hands, and pray for us in solidarity. Pray for abolishing of the blasphemy law. Pray for the release of Asia Bibi.” he told Vatican Radio. “These would be strong messages sent out to the Christians in Pakistan that we are not alone, that Christians throughout the world are with us and supporting us at every stage of the way. That would be something very encouraging.”

All Christians are encouraged to light a candle for Asia Bibi and other victims of Pakistan's blasphemy law on Wednesday.

Listen to the full interview of Charles Collins with Father Rodrigues: