Christian colonies in Pakistan

[Selma Shirazi]

Christian colonies in Pakistan

Non-Muslims make up less than 5 per cent of Pakistan's 175 million people. They are especially vulnerable to anti-blasphemy laws that carry the death penalty for derogatory remarks or any other action against Islam, the Quran or the Prophet Muhammad. Minority Rights Group International, a watchdog organization, lists Pakistan seventh on the list of 10 most dangerous countries for minorities. These are images from Christian colonies around Pakistan.–AP Photos

In this photo taken on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2009, a pilgrim carries an image of Jesus Christ during the 60th Christian Festival in the village of Mariamabad, Sheikhupura district,Pakistan.

[Selma Shirazi]

In this photo taken on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2009, pilgrims pass by Christian images during the 60th Christian Festival in the village of Mariamabad, Sheikhupura district, Pakistan.

[Selma Shirazi]

In this photo taken on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2009, Jessica Joseph, 5, watches TV at her home in a Christian colony in Islamabad, Pakistan.

[Selma Shirazi]

In this photo taken on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2009, pilgrims buy Christian images during the 60th Christian Festival in the village of Mariamabad, Sheikhupura district, Pakistan.

[Selma Shirazi]

In this photo taken on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2009, pilgrims perform break dancing during the 60th Christian Festival in the village of Mariamabad, Sheikhupura district, Pakistan.

[Selma Shirazi]

In this photo taken on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2009, pilgrims pass by an image of Mother Mary during the 60th Christian Festival in the village of Mariamabad, Sheikhupura district, Pakistan.

[Selma Shirazi]

In this photo taken on Monday, Aug. 17, 2009, a woman passes by a drawing of Santa Claus at a Christian colony in Islamabad, Pakistan.

[Selma Shirazi]

In this photo taken on Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2009, Christians, on the right, buy alcoholic drinks in Lahore, Pakistan.

[Selma Shirazi]

In this photo taken on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2009, children play video game in a Christian colony in Islamabad, Pakistan.

[Selma Shirazi]

In this picture taken on Sunday, Aug. 9, 2009, Sunny Rafaq, 28, center, works out with friends on the roof of his house at a Christian colony in Islamabad, Pakistan.