The Updater, June 2026
Message from Fr Arnold: Together we can make it happen
Recently, I have become increasingly aware of the suffering endured by many Christian families in several countries. They face discrimination, persecution, violence, imprisonment, and even death. Thousands have fled to countries such as Thailand and Malaysia seeking safety, only to find themselves living in prolonged uncertainty and hardship, waiting for a secure future.
I felt the Lord placing a challenge before me:
“Reach out to them. Help them find a place where they can live in freedom, safety, and dignity”
Australia has generously opened its doors to persecuted and displaced people from many parts of the world, including Afghanistan, Myanmar, Iraq, and Palestine. LinCoN is advocating that similar compassion and consideration be extended to these persecuted Christian families who long for the opportunity to rebuild their lives in peace.
But LinCoN cannot accomplish this mission alone.
We need people who can advocate for this cause, build alliances, offer professional expertise, create employment pathways, connect us with donor agencies, or provide practical support. Every contribution, large or small, can help bring hope.
How will we respond to reach out to those most in need?
Together, we can make it happen.
Fr Arnold Heredia
Dr Khurram Malik Enhanced LinCoN’s Vision
Dr Khurram Malik is the founder, Chief Executive Officer, and driving force behind HOPE Worldwide–Pakistan, has devoted his life to defending the rights and dignity of vulnerable people. Based in Auckland, New Zealand, HOPE promotes and safeguards the fundamental human rights of migrants, asylum seekers, refugees, and those affected by poverty, persecution, discrimination, and natural disasters.
Fr Arnold requested him to share his experience in operating his highly respected and successful organisation. Emmanuel William hosted him as well as the conference at his home, on 23 April 2026.
Dr Khurram offered several vital recommendations for the LinCoN’s development including broadening our outlook to include other issues besides asylum seekers and persecuted, such as human rights and socio-economic issues. Build recognition and support among politicians, govt officials, social welfare agencies and businesses. Invite them to the Annual General Meeting. He expressed his willingness to establish a Memorandum of Understanding between HOPE and LinCoN.
From Public Flogging to Freedom
The news report stated that Ashiq Masih and Shagufta Sadiq, a young couple from Karachi, had eloped. Shagufta’s parents lodged a complaint with the police. The couple was found at the home of Ashiq’s cousin in Rawalpindi and arrested because they were unable to produce a marriage certificate — an essential legal requirement for a couple living together in Pakistan.
They were promptly brought before a Sharia Court. The final verdict was: Ten years’ imprisonment, a fine of Rs 10,000 each, and ten lashes each to be administered publicly.
A couple of men were fogged in public, but never a woman. Fr Arnold Heredia, Director of Idara-e-Amn-o-Insaf (Justice and Peace Organisation), immediately contacted three prominent women’s organisations. They were equally appalled by the verdict and issued a joint statement to the press demanding a review of the case.
A.K. Brohi, a distinguished advocate, was contacted. He argued that non-Muslims should be judged according to the secular laws applicable to them. Under those laws, he submitted, fornication may be considered a moral or religious sin, but it is not a criminal offence. He further cited examples from Islamic tradition in which Jews and Christians brought disputes before the Prophet Muhammad, who directed them to resort to their religious or legal authorities to resolve such matters.
The court accepted Brohi’s arguments. The punishment of public flogging was set aside.
The ten-year sentence was deemed already served for the time they had spent in custody, and their fines were reduced to Rs 5,000 each.
The accused were released with immediate effect.
Letter from the CEO, Margaret Hamilton
Recently for 8 weeks during the months of April and May, I have been fortunate to walk and support my family to walk along the paths of the Camino – along the Northern Route in Spain. My son-in-law, Juan, who was born in Madrid speaks Spanish fluently so he was our guide and interpreter over the 825km. My daughter, Gen and husband Tim walked every step with Juan while another daughter Natasha came to join us for two weeks in the middle.
None of us spoke Spanish, and though many people we met probably did speak English, we found they were reluctant to. We now have a real appreciation for what many asylum seekers and refugees must experience when they land in a foreign country – they need to learn the language, and it’s not easy. They miss family and friends who could not come with them. Of course, there are many other hurdles and obstacles to overcome.
Over the past six months including while I was away, the LinCoN Board and Team members have been busily working. Our Treasurer, Aloysious, and Executive Assistant, Steve, have worked to successfully set up our Donations capability so it can all be managed online and through our website. We are now ready to handle lots of donations. Also, our Archbishop, Peter Comensoli, has approved a letter being sent by the Vicar General to all Parishes informing them about LinCoN and the work we do.
Support LinCon's mission today
Your generous contributions enable us to provide essential services and support to asylum seekers. Every donation, big or small, makes a significant difference. Help us continue our vital work.