UK: In November 2014, the world watched in horror as Shama and Shehzad, a young Christian couple from Pakistan, were brutally tortured and burned alive in a brick kiln after false accusations of blasphemy. Their tragic deaths shocked the global community and left behind three young children—Suleman, Sonia, and Poonam—suddenly orphaned and vulnerable in a hostile environment.

Since that heart-wrenching day, the British Asian Christian Association (BACA) has committed itself to ensuring that these children are not forgotten. With the help of our generous donors, we have been able to provide a nurturing and secure home environment with the support of a live-in nanny, education, clothing, food, and emotional care.

This blog post is a glimpse into the ongoing journey of healing and joy we’ve shared with this precious family.

On 28th February 2025, during a regular welfare visit by our Pakistan-based BACA team, the children expressed a few heartfelt wishes: they asked for new summer clothes and shoes to celebrate Easter and requested electric fans to beat the upcoming heatwave. They also hoped their rooms could be freshly painted for a brighter atmosphere.

On 17th April, just days before Easter, our team returned to their home with great news. Two fans were installed to bring much-needed relief from the blistering heat. Mukhtar Masih, their 60-year-old maternal grandfather and legal guardian, expressed deep gratitude for the timely installation, saying:

“It was extremely discomforting to sleep without a fan. Irritation due to hot weather on the one hand and the mosquitos on the other. The children used to wake up and fan themselves to keep them cool.”

The most joyous part of the day, however, came when the children were told they would be receiving new outfits and shoes for Easter. Accompanied by their dedicated nanny, Yasmin Bibi, the three children—Suleman (15), Sonia (13), and Poonam (11)—visited a local shopping mall and handpicked their favourite festive clothing and footwear.

Suleman shared his emotions with us:

“I have immense joy in my heart and gratitude for BACA for caring for us. They provide us everything we need to live happily and never feel deprived.”

His sisters Sonia and Poonam also expressed heartfelt thanks for the Easter gifts, smiling brightly in their new outfits, ready to celebrate the resurrection of Christ with renewed confidence and joy.

The orphans excitedly choose new Easter clothes for church, honoring a beloved Pakistani Christian custom.

A Tradition of Joy in a Life Marked by Loss

In Pakistan, it’s traditional for children to wear new clothes and shoes during religious festivals like Christmas and Easter—a symbol of purity, hope, and new beginnings. For orphans like Suleman, Sonia, and Poonam, the absence of parents could have meant the loss of such joys. But because of BACA’s mission and the unwavering support from donors like you, these children are not only surviving—they are thriving.

Our live-in nanny ensures their daily needs are met—cooking, washing, ironing, preparing school uniforms, and most importantly, offering motherly care and emotional stability. Sonia, in Grade 6, and Poonam, in Grade 5, are described as sensitive, polite, and well-mannered both at home and in school—proof of the nurturing environment BACA has built around them.

As requested by Mukhtar Masih, the painting of the children’s rooms will begin next week, after the Easter celebrations conclude. He anticipates the work will take a full week but looks forward to giving the children a refreshed and cheerful living space—one more step in their journey toward healing and hope.Sonia picks out new shoes to match her style—just like every child, her taste is all her own.

How You Can Help

The continued care for the children of Shama and Shehzad depends on the generosity of our supporters. Your donations help us provide for their daily needs, maintain a safe and loving environment, and offer them the same opportunities and joys that every child deserves.

Please consider donating today to keep hope alive for these three young lives who’ve already endured so much.

Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee of the British Asian Christian Association, said:

“The pain these children have endured after witnessing the brutal loss of their parents is beyond anything most of us could ever imagine. Yet, despite such unimaginable trauma, they have shown remarkable resilience and grace. Each year, Easter reminds us of the power of resurrection—not just in faith, but in life. Through the love and support of our donors, these children are no longer defined by their tragedy, but by the hope and joy that now surrounds them. Seeing their smiles in new clothes, chosen with pride, is a powerful sign that healing is possible.”

Thank you for standing with BACA in our mission to uplift persecuted Christian families. Your compassion continues to change lives.