On Dec. 24, 15 Iranian Christians were arrested by security forces in Pakdasht, Iran according to Farsi Christian News Network.
The believers were arrested and detained while gathered at a house church to celebrate Christmas. After a week without information, family members contacted authorities and demanded to know where they were being held. Officials told the families that the Christians would be released the same day, but instead they were secretly transferred to the notorious Evin prison in Tehran. Twelve of the believers were released on Jan. 4. The whereabouts and condition of the remaining three, Maryam Jalili, Mitra Zahmati, and Farzan Matin, remained unknown at last report.
Meanwhile, security officials have also raided the imprisoned Christians' homes and confiscated their books, computers, phone directories, CDs, DVDs and Christian literature. The Voice of the Martyrs supports persecuted believers like the ones in Iran. Pray Maryam, Farzan and Mitra will be released unharmed. Pray they will be a bold witness of Christ's love and forgiveness to authorities. Pray that religious freedom will be respected in Iran.
Posted: February 2, 2010
Updated: February 26, 2010