MY ACCOUNT
On what should have been a peaceful Sunday morning in Dehradun city, the Paul family—a persecuted Christian family in India—was shocked when their worship gathering was interrupted by an unexpected and violent intrusion.
Deeksha Paul, her husband Rajesh Bhoomi, their children and a few neighbors had gathered in their home for their usual time of worship when chaos erupted.
A group of local right-wing Hindu fundamentalists in Uttarakhand state burst into the Paul family’s home, falsely accusing the family of forced religious conversions.
What followed was a scene of destruction and fear as the intruders vandalized the family’s prayer room and bedroom, destroying religious symbols and personal property. More disturbingly, they physically assaulted several people present, including women and children.
Steadfast in their faith, the persecuted Christian family in India tried to reason with the aggressors. Deeksha attempted to open a dialogue, inviting them to discuss any concerns peacefully.
However, her pleas fell on deaf ears as the attackers continued their rampage, hurling insults and making derogatory remarks about the family’s Christian beliefs.
Rajesh Bhoomi, a pastor and local eatery owner, recounted the traumatic experience, particularly for the children present.
“They misbehaved with the children too, slapping their heads and questioning their participation in prayers,” he said, his voice heavy with concern for the young believers who witnessed such frightening violence.
Local authorities have filed charges against eleven individuals involved in the attack and are investigating the matter further.
The incident has left this persecuted Christian family in India and their community shaken, but not broken. Despite the trauma, they remain committed to their faith—and the power of forgiveness.
In Matthew 6:14, Jesus says, “If you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Pray for the Paul family: for healing and for justice, but also that they will be able to follow Jesus’ words and forgive those who sinned against them.
About the author
Chandler Peterson is a staff writer and editor for Global Christian Relief where she shares stories of Christian persecution. Read the latest Christian persecution stories on our website and learn more at GlobalChristianRelief.org.
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