Bradford MP Naz Shah and Dean Andy Bowerman in Pakistan

In early September, violent riots broke out in Jaranwala and mobs torched or vandalised churches and Christian families' homes. 

More than 1,000 Christian families were affected and provided with emergency aid from charity, Islamic Relief.

Many families were forced to flee, with children and elderly people among the homeless, sleeping out in the open fields.

Dean of Bradford and Bradford West MP during their visit to Jaranwala (Image: Islamic Relief)

People’s food stocks and belongings were also destroyed in the blaze.  

Islamic Relief joined civil society groups, religious scholars, and the government of Pakistan in strongly condemning the attacks. 

It also supported children and adults in need of mental health support after witnessing extreme violence and destruction. 

Bradford's representatives witnessed how communities in Pakistan pulled together and supported their neighbours in the aftermath of the attack. 

They also saw the important role faith can play in easing tensions and building better understanding between communities. 

Ms Shah said: "No community religious or otherwise should be persecuted and driven out of their homes because of the faith they choose to believe in."

The Very Reverend, Andy Bowerman, said: "We pray that our short visit will be part of the narrative for change."