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A Tragedy That Leaves Lifelong Trauma
It All Started on a Dark Day of Terror
The Christian community in Jaranwala, Punjab, which was then on the verge of breaking down due to mishaps, on August 16, 2023, learnt a new form of real fear, not the same as before. The day, as a matter of fact, fear and destruction outnumbered the loud prayers.
There was a lot of destruction; however, the indomitability of the community was still emanating.
Residents and participants were watching in disbelief as the fire engulfed the homes, the looters took off with the most expensive things from people’s houses, and everyone had to stay outside, seeing their homes one after the other falling. While no one died, the scars were far worse than anyone might imagine.
The temples and churches, the sources of peace and tranquillity for thousands of people, were now in dregs. The very ground of their faith felt as if it had been torn, but the spirits of the community members never left them.
The leaders of these churches, though physically absent, were present in the hearts and minds of the community, guiding them through this tumultuous time.
In the Aftermath
Clearing the burned-down buildings was the first step of healing, which happened later. Apart from the physical damage, the harshness of the betrayal served as another form of pain.
The government came up with a solution, and after catching some people and promising allowances and relief, the situation was not solved. A few of them had connections, so those friends of pastors and church leaders got help, while those left out were the underprivileged and on their own to squander their lives and even the occasional meal.
More than the loss of houses or the destruction of churches, the worst pain was the loss of leaders to lead and represent them. Most were gone, while the remaining did not support or guide the people. Christmas was fast approaching, and most of the faith leaders went away on holidays to the UK, the US & Europe, thus putting the community under stress.
The disbursed funds collected to improve living conditions were spent on their luxuries, travels, and comforts. Besides, the forgotten and deserted victims were not only the innocent bystanders of the attack but also the Angsting feeling of being mistreated by the people they had shown trust.
A Lesson in True Leadership
But in the face of betrayal, a new net had been woven in the most remarkable manner. The community adopted a collective approach, standing together in unity. This unity was not just a source of strength, but also a beacon of hope, inspiring us all.
Neighbours became more than just neighbours; they became family. Strangers were no longer strangers, but brothers and sisters. This transformation of relationships brought a sense of belonging and warmth to the community.
They let others into their homes, gave donations and ensured no one could be left alone in their suffering. We worked as one; the only way we could exist as a community, and the fact we are coming together binds us together with faith and love.
This ordeal has taught me a well-deserved lesson: a leader’s actual worth depends not on the title one has taken but on the actions one takes. It’s about being there with the people when they need you the most. True leaders never give up on their people in their most challenging moments; instead, they accompany and assist them till they finally find their way back to the correct path.
A good church is not the one with soaring spires and the best preaching. The key is how we treat one another, are present, and help each other.
The church is a powerful instrument of unity among people, helping them through their pains and directly addressing their needs. It is not only the reconstruction of spoiled buildings but also the restoration of faith and unity which blends the church community together.
For me, it required that disaster to see the beauty and the true strength of people from the generous and kind-hearted who donate without wanting anything in return.
As we build the structures and trust among us, I keep remembering my one firm belief: actual faith comes in deeds, not just words. This emphasis on actions over words is not just a reminder, but also a source of motivation and empowerment for us all.
Let us keep the fire burning through our actions, be spurred on by our faith, and believe in each other firmly.