Pastor Travis Johnson: US Citizen Pastor Joel Rehmat Arrested After Easter Mob Attack - Faith & Freedom News

By Michael D Butler

Breaking News: American Missionary Faces Detention in Lahore

In a concerning development for religious freedom advocates, US citizen Pastor Joel Rehmat has reportedly been detained by authorities in Lahore, Pakistan. The news was shared by Pathway Church pastor Travis Johnson across his social media platforms, drawing attention to what appears to be a serious international incident involving an American religious leader working abroad.

According to the video shared by Pastor Johnson, the detention followed what has been described as a “mob attack” on Pastor Rehmat’s church during Easter celebrations. Pastor Rehmat serves as the lead pastor at this church in Lahore, where he has been working as a missionary.

On Easter Sunday, a group of armed individuals reportedly stormed the church compound, targeting staff and congregants. According to statements shared by Pathway Church pastor Travis Johnson on social media, the mob verbally and physically assaulted Christian women and church employees before local law enforcement arrived at the scene.

🚨NOW!!🚨🇺🇸 USA CITIZEN, PASTOR JOEL REHMAT ARRESTED IN PAKISTAN 🇵🇰 AFTER EASTER MOB ATTACK ON HIS CHURCH.
Christian women gather in support of their pastor near the police station where he is currently being held. 🚩🚩

Community Response

The detention has prompted immediate reaction from the local Christian community in Pakistan, with women from the congregation reportedly gathering near the police station where Pastor Rehmat is being held to show their support. These demonstrations highlight the community’s concern for their spiritual leader.

In his urgent social media post, Pastor Johnson called for widespread sharing of the information with a hashtag #FREEPASTORJOEL to raise awareness about Pastor Rehmat’s situation. He specifically requested prayers for Pastor Rehmat and for persecuted Christians worldwide.

Official Statements

The Church of God National Overseer has confirmed reports of Pastor Rehmat’s detention. Additionally, Michael D. Butler, CEO of Beyond Publishing and Faith & Freedom News, has expressed serious concern about the incident and called for a “free and fair investigation” into the matter.

Background Context

Pakistan has a complicated history regarding religious freedom, particularly for minority religious groups. The country’s blasphemy laws have been criticized by international human rights organizations for their potential misuse against religious minorities, including Christians.

Current Status

As of this reporting, Pastor Joel Rehmat remains in police custody in Lahore. The specific charges, if any, have not been clearly communicated in the initial reports. The situation continues to develop as religious freedom advocates and potentially U.S. diplomatic channels become involved. Detention and Current Status

Following the attack, Pastor Joel was taken into police custody in Lahore. The precise charges remain unclear, though Christian advocacy groups suggest that he may be implicated falsely in an act of incitement or public disturbance. Fellow clergymen and congregants have gathered outside the police station, calling for his release and a fair, transparent investigation.

Call to Action

Those concerned about Pastor Rehmat’s situation are encouraged to share information about his detention and join in prayer for his safety and release. Pastor Johnson’s call for solidarity suggests this could become an important case for those monitoring religious freedom issues internationally.

This situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by religious minorities and missionary workers in regions where religious tensions remain high. We will continue to monitor developments in this case as more information becomes available.

Michael D. Butler (CEO, Beyond Publishing & Faith & Freedom News): Expressed deep concern, demanding “a free and fair investigation” and respect for legal due process.