Emanuel Sarfraz: A Legacy of Courage and Advocacy for Pakistani Christians
On January 13, 2025, the Christian community in Pakistan mourned the loss of Emanuel Sarfraz, a pioneering journalist and advocate for minority rights, who passed away at the age of 56 in Lahore. His contributions to journalism and his unwavering commitment to the Christian community in a predominantly Muslim nation have left an indelible mark on many lives.
As a founding member of the Christian Journalists Association of Pakistan (CJAP), Sarfraz played a vital role in empowering Christian voices within the media landscape. With less than 2% of the Pakistani population identifying as Christian, he recognized the importance of representation and actively worked to provide training and job opportunities for aspiring Christian journalists. His efforts not only reshaped the narrative for Christians in media but also fostered a sense of community among journalists from minority backgrounds.
Sarfraz was a trailblazer, being the first Christian journalist to write a column in an English-language newspaper in Pakistan. His writing often tackled pressing issues such as education, gender equality, and incidents of persecution faced by Christians. Friends and colleagues remember him as a man of principle, whose faith was evident in both his personal life and professional endeavors.
In addition to his journalistic achievements, Sarfraz served as the general secretary of the Lahore YMCA starting in 2020. During his tenure, he initiated a variety of programs aimed at enhancing the lives of young people, including cybersecurity workshops and interfaith dialogue conferences. His work extended to supporting Christian women, establishing a secure female-only hostel and gymnasium in Lahore—an unprecedented initiative in the region.
Sarfraz’s leadership was characterized by his belief in the power of engagement. He often advised fellow journalists to remain within the system to effect change rather than standing on the sidelines. This philosophy guided his approach to journalism, where he emphasized the importance of responsible reporting that respects all faiths.
Born in 1968 to a Christian family in Lahore, Sarfraz was the youngest of five children. His father held a managerial position at the Punjab Religious Book Society, while his mother managed their household. Sarfraz pursued higher education at Islamia College, earning master’s degrees in English and international relations. Despite passing the challenging civil service exam, he chose to follow his passion for journalism, a field not commonly pursued by Christians in Pakistan.
His career began at The Nation, where he honed his skills over two decades, eventually rising to the position of coordinating editor. Sarfraz covered significant national and international events, such as the devastating 2005 Kashmir earthquakes and the 2010 Pakistan floods. His commitment to preserving cultural identity led him to write extensively about the Punjabi language and literature, advocating for its importance in a rapidly changing society.
In 2019, he launched "Academia," Pakistan’s first education-focused print magazine, which allowed him to merge his passions for media and education. Sarfraz was dedicated to mentoring young journalists, often connecting them with opportunities and encouraging them to expand their writing skills.
His influence extended beyond journalism; he was actively involved in various community initiatives. Sarfraz organized festivals for both minority and majority communities, promoting social harmony and understanding. His wife, Ghazala, who now serves as the first female general secretary of YMCA Lahore, shared that he believed in the importance of unity and collaboration among different faiths.
In recognition of his tireless work, Sarfraz received numerous accolades, including the Ambassador for Peace Award in 2023. He was also acknowledged for his contributions to child protection and interfaith harmony by various organizations, including the Punjab government.
Sarfraz’s legacy lives on through his family and the countless individuals he inspired. His friends recall his unwavering commitment to his faith and his community, always encouraging others to strive for excellence while remaining true to their beliefs. As the Christian community in Pakistan continues to face challenges, the impact of Emanuel Sarfraz’s life serves as a reminder of the power of advocacy, faith, and the importance of standing together.
For those interested in supporting the Christian community in Pakistan or learning more about the ongoing challenges they face, organizations such as Open Doors and Christian Solidarity Worldwide provide valuable resources and information.