Dear Friends,

I know that you have been hearing a lot about Pakistan these days, and I suspect that most of what you have heard has not been good news. For the past week, we have had the new channels on for only one night, and then they went off again. Last night one channel managed to come through, but there is no guarantee that it will be on today. You probably have heard more of what is happening here than we have, although, as always, there are alternate sources of information even when the news channels are blocked!

Once again, I am aware of how lucky we are in the States to have the type of government we do, and how wise our founding fathers were in setting the structure of our government! We certainly have our share of debate and criticism when election time draws near, but we know that there will be no violence, and elections will take place at a scheduled time. Whoever is elected will peacefully take office on schedule, and whether any person or group is happy or not, we will live with the decision. There is a lot to be said for that type of stability!

It is not the same here. There is much tension over who will lead the country, and political alignments seem tentative. It is still an area where the population is largely uneducated and move with the popular opinion, when they move at all. Mostly, they are uninvolved in the political scene, but can be easily influenced by others to serve a particular agenda. Thus, political rallies can become unruly. Anyone with real sense stays away from any such gathering.

This is also an area that is not used to democratic elections or governance. Its history is one of rule by some vestige of authority whether that was gained through family lineage or by force. Needless to say, when there is to be a change of leadership, it is unsettling at best, and the truth is that those who are in power tend to want to remain in power and will do what they can to insure their positions. I am not sure that even the political leaders or would-be leaders know how democracy really works.

As far as our safety here, so far all is well, and we expect it to remain so. Bahawalpur is a small city and not at the forefront of political action, for which I am grateful. There was one incident in Multan where we also have a convent, but Multan is a large city and the troubles there were far from where our sisters are. Generally, Multan is also not involved in too many problems. Most of the trouble is in the northern regions, some of which are long-time “hot spots.” Because Islamabad, which is in the north, is the center of the government, it too has many problems right now, as do other large cities in the north. Karachi also tends to have more than its share of unrest. Of course, when some people in the country are attacked, killed, or hurt in anyway, everyone feels the pain. We know that from our own experiences in the States. So, we do suffer in union with those who have been injured and those who have lost loved ones.

We are concerned about what is happening and pray daily for peace in this country. We try to maintain a hopeful and peaceful climate where we minister, and use caution in our own activities. We are aware and realistic, but we do not, cannot live in a state of fear or panic. We are putting our trust in God to take care of us and to bring this country the stability and leadership it needs.

I am very appreciative of your prayers and support. Please continue to keep us, and all of the people here in your prayers.

Anne