Five priests rushed to court after hearing the news and saw the bodies. Some were critical of the light security arrangements for the accused men.

"We had been demanding more security for them, but we never expected this," said Dominican Father Pascal Paulus. "Only three police guards was insufficient."

The deaths sparked a series of street clashes between Christians and Muslims, who raided Holy Rosary Catholic Church, pelting it with stones and causing extensive damage. Local mosques are said to have made provocative announcements over their loudspeakers, encouraging the violence, UCA News reported.

Afterward, Church offices, including the local Caritas headquarters, remained closed, and some Christians fled their homes. Police said they arrested 60 Muslims.

A memorial service was held for the brothers at the city's Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul July 20. The congregation had to be escorted in and out by police.

"We urge Christians to remain peaceful, but we also demand that the real culprits be brought to justice," said Bishop Joseph Coutts of Faisalabad, who celebrated the Mass. "Minorities have suffered a lot."

At Masses July 18, Paulus told parishioners not to discuss Islamic doctrine.

"Our survival depends on this," he said. "Respect Islam and try to be tolerant and peaceful."

On July 10, his church was stoned by a crowd of 100 Muslims carrying sticks and glass bottles, UCA News reported. Local Christians guarded the church for several nights after the incident.