The Most Revd Dr Thabo Makgoba, Archbishop of Cape Town, has sent the following letter to the Primate of the United Church of Pakistan, in response to the Statement by the Executive Committee of their Synod that follows the latest fatal attack on Christians there (see http://www.anglicancommunion.org/acns/news.cfm/2009/11/2/ACNS4665).  The Archbishop commends the country of Pakistan, and especially the plight of those Christians facing persecution, to the prayers of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa.   

To: The Rt Revd Samuel Azariah
Primate, The Church of Pakistan

My dear brother in Christ

In recent weeks and months, I have found myself drawn to follow closely the difficult times that Pakistan has been experiencing, and the particular troubles which the Christian community has faced.  My heart has been grieved by what I have seen and read, and you have been much in my prayers, and remembered frequently in our daily services in Bishopscourt's chapel.

The statement adopted by the Executive Committee of Synod, which has just been circulated by the Anglcian Communion News Service has prompted me to write to assure you that I, and my Province, are journeying with you in prayer.  I am reminded of how Jesus told his followers not to worry about what to say in the face of persecution, but to let the Holy Spirit speak through them. I am praying that this may be the experience of you and all your people at every level - whether those facing such terrible experiences as the nine burnt to death in Gojra, or you and other church leaders in lobbying the political, judicial and security authorities.  May the Father send his Spirit upon you all, to encourage and uphold you, to strengthen your endurance, and to bring you the assurance of his salvation and the steadfast hope that nothing in life or death can ever separate you from his love for us in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

If you would be helped by me, together with other Christian and interfaith leaders, lobbying the Pakistani High Commission in South Africa, I would be glad to do this.  Do let me know.

Meanwhile, be assured of our continuing prayers for you, and for all Christians in Pakistan.

Your in the service of Christ

+Thabo Cape Town