Two Islamist terrorists attacked the Sunday morning service at Bethel Memorial Methodist Church in Quetta on 17 December, killing nine Christians (including women and children), who died at the church or in hospital from their injuries, and injuring more than 60 others.
Many lives were saved by two courageous men who held back the attackers at the church gates. Realising that they were about to be attacked, Sultan Masih (aged 36) quickly locked the gates and warned others to get into the church building. He was joined in facing the terrorists by another man, 63-year-old George Masih (not related to Sultan). A second after he locked the gates, the first terrorist arrived. It took the terrorists 82 seconds to climb the gate and get in, thus giving valuable time to the believers to take cover. George can be seen on the CCTV before the terrorists jump down. Both Sultan and George were killed, but their tremendous bravery in facing the terrorists alone saved many other lives.
Christmas still celebrated
The church still met together for their Christmas service, when the atmosphere was one of sombre reflection. Pastor Simon Bashir was advised to take some time off after having to counsel so many of his congregation through the brutal slaying and violence meted out on them and family members. However, he refused to stay at home.
Over 300 parishioners attended the service despite the political machinations and urgent repairs to the building that meant a final decision was only made hours before the service took place. Many members cleaned the church, which would have meant removing and clearing the blood from their own relatives.
Christ gives us hope
During the service the following words were spoken: ‘This is the most holy day in the Christmas Calendar, nothing man-made, no bomb or gun could keep God’s people away. We have all been raring to get back to church despite our losses, knowing full well it is our duty to celebrate the birth of Christ that gives us hope. It is through his birth that we are able to one day see again all of those who have been martyred. Jesus Christ died the most brutal death possible so that we might have eternal life beyond this frail mortal existence.’
