On Easter day 2016 two young brothers travelled to Gulshan Park, filled with exuberance after having enjoyed a wonderful service celebrating the resurrection
of their Lord Jesus Christ. Nouman Paul (19 years) and Ashir Paul (18 years) like all the other young men in the church had been volunteering in setting
up the church the night before.
They and all their friends had passionately enjoyed their church morning devotions, but that is no surprise as they had been brought up in a culture
where singing songs to their God is a communal and very thrilling experience.
Easter services are a day to remember, not a chore in Pakistan where parishioners under persecution cling to God knowing He is their only hope for
survival.
Visits to Gulshan Park and many similar parks in Lahore are a long standing tradition for Pakistan’s Christian families a time to continue their revelry
but this night was different. A night of euphoria became a night of devastation…
Two suicide bombers set off their explosive devices around the bumper cars at the Gulshan Parks amusement rides, an area with a high number of children
due to the toilet facilities, the popular ride itself and the food stall.
The impact immediately killed 74 people and injured a further 360.
Nouman was killed instantly, his brother Ashir Paul was seriously injured. He would discover the death of his brother later. An announcement that has
left him inconsolable.
Nouman had been forced to leave school at 13 whilst his father struggles with diabetes, high blood pressure and a heart condition prevented him working.
He was completing training as a beautician and was paid a stipend of 7000 rupees (£50) per month as an apprentice, whilst undertaking other part time
work to feed his family. His time as a trainee was almost complete as his final exams were due in July, and he was looking forward to freeing his mother
from her work as a domestic servant. The Mother of Nouman, Asia James spoke to Mehwish, she said:
“Nouman was a very responsible son and understood his responsibility as my eldest son. Since he left school he has been working earning for our family in different work roles finally he came across this opportunity to build a career in the beauty industry, but it has been taken away from my beautiful boy.” Asia James broke down into a sob at this point and Mehwish hugged her for support.
Asia bravely continued, she said:
“He was forced to leave school early when his father became ill and for this he has struggled with so many difficult and painful jobs, but he never complained. He never gave up on life and was strong and resolute and always stayed optimistic he built up my confidence when I was down too.
Nouman was very active with church and he loved his brother and both sisters more than anything, an example that they all have followed. I have failed my son, his life has been taken away before he could experience marriage and the joy that that brings and all he has known is hardship. I hope God will forgive me and that he will treasure my son who loved Him so much.”
Due to poor health of father Paul Masih (62 years), Nouman had been supporting the family financially alone. At such a young and tender age he had
taken on the role as main breadwinner. His sisters school fees and transport were paid for by him and it was hoped that they would continue their education
and obtain good careers. The family had hoped that one day his siblings would share the financial burden enabling Nouman to explore options for a better
future.
Nouman’s sister Pari (17 years), said:
“Nouman was very caring I owe him so much. I cannot stop crying. I remember him how he was, young energetic and passionate – not the dead body that was shown to us after his murder. He was expecting so much on completion of his beautician course but will never experience the joy of a career he deserved. I will always miss him.”
Ashir Paul was also struck by the shrapnel from the bomb, but the ball bearings entered his stomach region without affecting any of his vital organs.
He has had successful surgery funded by the BPCA during which the ball bearings were removed and now the family hopes for his quick recovery. Ashir
left school at 16 and works as a salesman for Abdul Tobacco company on a very low income. He was also supporting the family financially now the family
will be relying on just his income to survive.
The Paul Family have requested funds from the BPCA to help them untill Ashir is completely able to support his family. Mehwish has prayed for the family
and has paid the entire costs for the funeral and is supporting medical needs.
We will be offering the family £400 compensation to help them adjust to the loss of a main bread winner.
Please keep this family in your prayers focusing on complete healing of Ashir and for restoration of his body.
Sign our petition (click here)
The funeral was well attended.
N
BPCA covered the cost for food at the funeral ceremony.
Nouman at only 19 his life was cut extremely short.
Men pray for the family and console each other.
Final burial of Nouman. BPCA covered all costs for the funeral