Pakistan

The Church of Pakistan

The Church of Pakistan (a United Church) represents a small Christian minority in a predominantly Muslim country.

Despite challenges—including discrimination, poverty, and limited social participation—the Church remains committed to holistic ministry.

Whilst there is no legal bar to evangelistic work, the propagation of the gospel is not always welcomed, and extremist voices and accusations have at times led to discrimination against Christians and persecution through the courts.

The Church works to empower marginalised communities, especially women, children, and the poor, through education, healthcare, and legal awareness. Many dioceses run development programmes focused on literacy, vocational training, and human rights advocacy.

The Church engages in ecumenical partnerships and theological education.  It actively promotes minority rights and speaks out against discrimination.  Its mission is rooted in service, justice, and the Gospel, aiming to help Christians understand their rights and reduce vulnerability in a complex socio-political landscape.

The Church of Pakistan is a United Church formed in 1970 through the union of four Protestant denominations: Anglican, Methodist, Lutheran, and Presbyterian (Scottish).

This ecumenical merger aimed to foster unity and cooperation among Christians in Pakistan.

Initially comprising four dioceses—Karachi, Multan, Lahore, and Sialkot—the Church expanded in 1980 to include Hyderabad, Raiwind, Faisalabad, and Peshawar, now served by eight bishops and one for Gulf ministries.

Christian mission work in the region dates back to the 16th century, with early efforts focused on Hindu Punjabis. After the partition of India in 1947, missionary activity shifted, and the Church of Pakistan became a distinct entity.

Today, it is the second-largest Christian denomination in the country, with around 500,000 members and 600 pastors. The Church has played a vital role in education and healthcare.