Iran's Revolutionary Court recently upheld Pastor Farshid Fathi's six-year sentence for "political offences," forcing him to complete a prison term that began more than 18 months ago. Farshid was arrested in December 2010 for his Christian work, convicted of being the chief agent of foreign organizations in Iran and of administrating funds for foreign organizations (for more on his arrest, click here).
Both the verdict and sentence were upheld on appeal, and he will serve the remainder of his sentence in section 350 of Evin Prison. According to Elam Ministries, Farshid has become a shining beacon for Christ in Evin prison. The son of an Iranian Ayatollah has commented on Farshid's sweet nature in a video available on YouTube, remarking on how beloved Farshid is amongst the inmates.
Pray that God will grant Farshid endurance as he continues to bring light to those in Evin prison during the remainder of his sentence. Pray that his testimony will encourage other Christians throughout Iran. Pray that God will comfort Farshid's wife, Leila, and their two children, Rosana and Bardia. Pray that God will bless the Church in Iran.
By funding television broadcasts, VOMC is making it possible for a vast audience of viewers to be reached throughout Iran with the "Good News" of Jesus' love via satellite.
Ethnicity Persian, Azeri, Kurd, Lur, Baloch, Arab, Turkmen and Turkic tribes
Religion (%) Islam (99.6), other, including Christian (0.3), Unspecified (0.2)
Leader President Ebrahim Raisi (2021)
Government type Theocratic republic
Legal system Religious legal system based on secular and Islamic law
Source: CIA World Factbook
Pray for Iran
As the Gospel message goes forth over the airwaves, may the growth of the church continue to multiply despite persecution. Pray that the Iranian government will be open to change, allowing full rights and protection for its non-Muslim citizens as well. In the meantime, may those who are forced to flee the country find safe refuge and help so they can live in peace and worship the Lord with freedom.
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