Punjab, Pakistan: After losing their parents to a brutal mob killing in 2014, the orphaned children of Shama and Shahzad Masih continue to rebuild their lives with BACA’s ongoing care. 

During a recent visit, the children’s simple wish for a cupboard to store their clothes touched BACA’s team deeply. 

The gift brought smiles and a renewed sense of security to their home. 

A small act of kindness reminded them they are loved, remembered, and never alone. 

The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) continues its heartfelt mission to care for the three orphaned children of Shama and Shahzad Masih, the young Christian couple who were falsely accused of blasphemy and brutally murdered in Kasur in 2014. More than a decade after the tragedy that shocked the world, BACA remains steadfast in ensuring that their children are loved, supported, and given the chance to build a hopeful future. 

A Legacy of Love Amid Loss 

In November 2014, the world recoiled in horror as news spread of the brutal killing of Shahzad and Shama, two bonded labourers who were falsely accused of blasphemy after Shama’s employer sought to prevent her from filing rape charges against his accountant. Before any justice could be served, the couple were beaten and burned alive by a radicalised mob. (Read more here) 

Their children — Suleman (then 5), Sonia (3), and Poonam (1) — witnessed the unimaginable. BACA stepped in immediately after the tragedy, providing housing, education, and daily care to ensure these children would not face life’s hardships alone. 

A Cupboard That Brought Smiles 

During a regular visit on 15th September 2025, the children made a simple yet touching request — a new cupboard. Their old, borrowed steel cupboard was broken and unusable. Understanding the importance of dignity and comfort in even the smallest things, BACA swiftly provided a new steel cupboard with secure locks for the children to keep their clothes and belongings safe. 

When the cupboard arrived, the children were overjoyed. They eagerly organised their clothes, smiling and laughing as they each claimed their own section. 

Sonia (13) expressed her gratitude: 

“I am thankful to BACA for the new cupboard. We needed it very much as we had no proper place to keep our clothes. The cupboard has three sections — one for me, one for my brother, and one for my younger sister Poonam.” 

Joy fills the room as Sonia and Poonam proudly admire their new cupboard 

Growing Up Surrounded by Care 

The children have developed a close relationship with the BACA team, often inviting them to family moments and celebrations. Sonia, the eldest, has already invited the team to her birthday next month — and made a cheerful request: 

“Bring me a pink cake like you did last year,” she said with a big smile. 

To ensure the children receive consistent love and guidance, BACA pays for a live-in nanny who provides a nurturing, maternal presence in their daily lives, helping them grow up in a stable and caring environment. In addition, BACA regularly assists with groceries and medical expenses, ensuring the family never struggles for basic needs. 

Their grandfather, Mukhtar Masih (67), who has lovingly cared for them since their parents’ death, shared his heartfelt thanks: 

“BACA has always supported the children and provided for their needs. They not only help with food and medical costs but have also given us a kind nanny who loves the children like a mother. Because of this care, my grandchildren are growing up happy and healthy. I am thankful to the BACA donors for not leaving us alone and for treating us like family.” 

Continuing the Promise 

This small act of kindness — a cupboard — may seem simple, but to these children, it represents security, dignity, and the reassurance that they are not forgotten. BACA remains dedicated to supporting their education, well-being, and dreams as they grow. 

Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee of the British Asian Christian Association, said: 

“For these precious children, every act of care is a reflection of Christ’s enduring love — a love that triumphs even in the face of unimaginable loss. Through God’s grace, we see them growing into kind, hopeful, and resilient young people, and we are so proud of the faith and strength they continue to show. BACA’s mission is not only to meet their material needs but to nurture their hearts, restore their hope, and remind them that they are deeply loved by God and by all who stand with them. The world failed their parents — we must not fail them.” 

Hannah Chowdhry, Communications Officer at British Asian Christian Association, said: 

“I have spent time online with these remarkable children on several occasions, and I continue to be inspired by their courage and joy. Despite the darkness of the terrible crime that took their parents, they have not been broken — God is using their experiences to shape a bright and hopeful future for them. Poonam, in particular, dreams of becoming a doctor, and it is clear she has the talent and determination to achieve it. I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside them and hope to visit them in person this November to see how they continue to flourish under God’s care.”