US church-linked ministry helps release 60 Christian families from debt bondage in Pakistan

A Christian church in the United States has helped release 60 Christian families from debt bondage in Pakistan over the last two years, according to a report by Premier Christian News.

The article describes how many Christians in Pakistan become trapped in brick kiln camps after borrowing money from kiln owners or lenders. Debts become nearly impossible to repay because of extremely low wages, and families can be held in debt bondage, or slavery, for generations. Children are often forced to work alongside their parents, and Christian families face additional discrimination, abuse, and exploitation because of their faith.

Standing in the Word Ministries, which is based in Illinois, says its work with local ministry partners is helping families in the camps pay off their debts and regain their freedom. The outreach, known as Project Freedom, has also funded 74 clean-water wells in Pakistan since April 2024, helping provide communities with access to safe drinking water.

Lead pastor Richard Giovannetti travelled to Pakistan to see the conditions for himself. He said he is grateful for the release of the 60 families, but hopes hundreds more will be liberated. “We are seeking opportunities to raise awareness of this crisis and encourage churches, organizations, and believers around the world to become involved,” he said.

Source: Read the original report