Why I Support a Brave Leader Like Päivi Räsänen

It was a proud and blessed moment for me to be present at the Finnish Parliament in Europe. We were deeply honored to meet a sister in Christ, someone who has faithfully raised her voice for Biblical truth. Päivi Räsänen, a respected leader in the European Parliament and former Foreign Minister. In 2019, she was investigated for incitement after criticizing the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland’s official participation in LGBT Pride celebration events. In April 2021, Finnish Prosecutor announced that three separate charges of incitement against a minority group were being filed against her. The first part of her trial was held on 24 January 2022 and the second part of her trial was held on 14 February. The trial attracted international attention, and the statements and testimonies of both the first and second parts of the trial and also the court’s decision was live-blogged in English by Christian Network Europe. The District Court found her and Pohjola not guilty of all charges and ordered the prosecution to pay their legal costs on 30 March 2022.

For years we have prayed for her, as she boldly defended the Bible and Biblical marriage. Meeting her in person in the Parliment, was a powerful reminder that God’s people shine as the “Light of Jesus”. As Jesus said “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16

“You are a hero for global Christians and for all who stand for religious freedom. As Christians living in Pakistan, we understand deeply what it means to face persecution in an Islamic country. We also observe with concern that in Europe, where freedom and diversity are often celebrated, judicial proceedings are now being used against those who remain faithful to the Bible. This reveals that true diversity and religious freedom are not always upheld. Too often, the concept of diversity is applied selectively, used to welcome people of other faiths, including those who have persecuted Christians, while native believers in Europe are subjected to trials, legal pressures, and social marginalization. We stand firmly with you and all those who courageously defend their faith in Europe. Their witness is not only vital for Christians across the continent but also a source of encouragement to believers around the world, including here in Pakistan. We believe that through such steadfast voices, Finland and all of Europe can return to honoring their Christian heritage, which is deeply rooted in the Word of God. This is true “Freedom of speech”, “Religious Freedom” and diversity. — Kaleem Shahzad

Leaders like Päivi Räsänen are the stars of Jesus, that shine and defeat darkness in every era. We continue to pray for her success in all judicial proceedings and for her to inspire and raise up more leaders who will stand for Biblical truth, without fear or shame, in a land that values freedom and diversity.

Our Meeting at the Parliament

During our official meeting, we focused on the challenges Christians face both in Pakistan and in Europe. We prayed together and shared our vision that God would open doors for us to do greater things for Christian students, especially through scholarships and educational opportunities. We believe this is a key way to strengthen the next generation of believers.

We also discussed the importance of Christian unity worldwide. Christians across the globe, whether in Europe, Pakistan, or elsewhere need to come together, support one another, and remain steadfast in their faith.

Concerns for Europe

Our conversation also touched on the cultural and social challenges Europe is currently facing, as well as the urgent need to safeguard religious freedom and Biblical values for future generations.

We raised concerns such as:

• The alarming decline of churches in the UK, where over 3,000 have been sold and turned into mosques.
• The growing pressure to conform to restrictive cultural practices.
• The promotion of ideologies that threaten freedom, equality, and Biblical teaching.

Meanwhile, Christians in Pakistan and many other nations live under constant threat, with little or no religious freedom. These realities remind us of the importance of standing firm in protecting women, children, and future generations, while upholding freedom, education, and human dignity.

Looking Ahead

We also shared a request for Europe to consider providing more scholarship opportunities for Christian students in Pakistan and other islamic countries. This would not only empower individuals but also strengthen communities and ensure that the light of Christ continues to shine in difficult places.

Above all, we know this mission is not possible by our own strength. It is only by the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit that such work can be done.

We remain hopeful, prayerful, and committed to the vision that God has placed in our hearts, and we are grateful for courageous leaders like Päivi who inspire us to press on.