Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: December 2, 2023
For many Christians across Iran, the festive period will bring feelings of anxiety.
Authorities often increase their campaign of arrests and harassment of Christians at Christmas, in raids that have been ironically nicknamed the government’s ‘Christmas present’.
Last year for example, Pastor Matthias Haghnejad was arrested on Boxing Day along with another member of his denomination. He is now facing charges he had already been acquitted of, as well as new accusations from a couple from his denomination who he has never met.
Many others will be spending Christmas in prison because of their religion or belief – typically facing trumped-up charges relating to ‘national security’, ‘extremism’ or ‘propaganda’.
Please pray:
- That those imprisoned on false charges would be released.
- That those forced to meet in secret would be protected. For example, some may hold Christmas services in private homes, knowing that they will face arrest, interrogation and even physical abuse if they are caught.
- That those who have had no other choice but to flee Iran would find refuge. They often face further discrimination and difficulties when seeking asylum in neighbouring countries like Turkey.