Hope, Healing, and Redemption: Prison Sunday

Date: 4th of August, 2024

This Sunday marked a significant and uplifting event at City Harvest Church, Lahore, as we dedicated our service to raise awareness and advocacy for prisoners in Pakistan. This special observance, known as Prison Sunday, served as a powerful platform to highlight the challenges that prisoners in our country are facing, echoing a global call for the upholding of their fundamental human rights.

Challenges Faced by Prisoners in Pakistan

In Pakistan, prisoners often find themselves in dire circumstances. Beyond the confines of their cells, they face numerous challenges that strip them of their fundamental rights. Overcrowding, inadequate healthcare, lack of legal representation, and inhumane treatment are but a few of the grievances that came under the spotlight. Our aim was not just to bring these issues to light but to stir our congregation and the wider community towards empathy, understanding, and action.

Making Awareness and Voicing Out for Prisoners

The event was a heartfelt attempt to make the congregation aware of the plight of prisoners. Through sermons and dedicated prayers, we sought to become a voice for the voiceless, offering hope and advocating for change. Our message emphasized that every individual, regardless of their past or present circumstances, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

Reverend Obed Rauf, a senior pastor and chairman of City Harvest Church Pakistan, along with Brother Sohail Emmanual, executive director of the Prison Ministry at City Harvest Church, delivered a focused and impactful message to the congregation on Prison Sunday.? Reverend Rauf, recognized for his leadership within the church, dedicated this special day to raising awareness about the plight of those incarcerated.? His sermon served as a poignant reminder of the importance of supporting and advocating for those who are imprisoned, emphasizing the vital work of the Prison Ministry in reaching out to these individuals and offering them hope and spiritual guidance.

Global Advocacy for Human Rights for Prisoners

Our Prison Sunday went beyond national borders, aligning us with a global advocacy movement for human rights. We highlighted the importance of international solidarity and the role we can play in making a tangible difference in the lives of prisoners, both locally and around the world. This advocacy is not just about awareness but about action—encouraging policy changes, support for prisoners' families, and reintegration programs.

I want to express my gratitude for the collaboration with the Incarceration Nation network, which has encouraged us to be the voice of people in prison.

Biblical References and Illustrations

Throughout the service, we anchored our messages in Biblical teachings, drawing parallels with the life and words of Jesus Christ. Matthew 25:36, "I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me," served as a clarion call to our duty as Christians to minister and serve those in need, including prisoners. The story of Joseph in Egypt, who found himself unjustly imprisoned, yet remained steadfast in faith and was eventually elevated to a position of power and influence, was shared as an illustration of hope and the transformative power of faith.

A Call to Action

As we reflected on the significance of Prison Sunday, we were reminded that our faith calls us not only to worship but to act. The challenges facing prisoners in Pakistan and around the world require our immediate attention and action. Our congregation was encouraged to contribute in any way they can, whether through prayer, volunteering with organizations that support prisoners, or advocating for policy reforms.

This observance was not just about raising our voices but about committing to be the hands and feet of Jesus, working towards a future where the rights and dignity of every individual are respected and upheld. We pray that our collective efforts will bring about much-needed change and awareness, not just in Pakistan but globally, as we continue to fight for the rights of prisoners and advocate for justice and humanity.

As we move forward, let us hold onto the belief that change is possible, and that through our faith and actions, we can make a significant impact in the lives of those who are often forgotten. Let Prison Sunday be the starting point of an ongoing commitment to advocate for the marginalized and to embody the love and compassion that Christ has shown us all.

A Humble Prayer for Prisoners

Heavenly Father,

On this Prison Sunday, we come before You with hearts full of compassion and hope. We lift up to You all those who find themselves behind bars, feeling isolated and burdened.

Lord, we ask for Your comforting presence to surround them. Bring them peace in their hearts and minds, and let them feel Your loving embrace in their darkest moments. May they find strength in their faith and solace in Your promises.

Grant them hope for a brighter future, wisdom to reflect on their past, and the courage to make positive changes. Surround them with opportunities for growth and transformation, and guide them towards reconciliation and healing.

We pray for their families as well, that they may find comfort and support in their time of separation. Let Your love and grace shine through every aspect of their lives.

Lord, we also ask for the strength and compassion of those who work within the prison system. Bless their efforts to provide support, guidance, and a path to redemption for those in their care.

In Your mercy, we trust that new beginnings and second chances are possible. May Your light lead the way and Your love be ever-present.

In Jesus' holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Rev. Obed Rauf

Chairman City Harvest Church Pakistan.