Iranian Christians have called for prayer after Robert Asserian, a pastor from the Assemblies of God church in Tehran, was arrested on the morning of May 21. He was arrested by security officers as he led a prayer meeting at the church. They had previously searched his house and confiscated personal belongings, such as computer equipment and books. It is not known where he is now.
Pressure on Assemblies of God and other officially recognized churches increased in 2012, with more widespread surveillance and restrictions, and more services were shut down, especially those on Fridays or those held in Farsi. This pressure has continued in 2013. Leaders from the Assemblies of God church in Tehran informed their members on May 19 that major changes to the church's activities were being considered as a result of increased pressure from the authorities.
Prayers are also still needed for the leaders of the Assemblies of God church in Ahvaz, which remains closed following a raid in December 2011. The pastor, Farhad, and his wife, Shahnaz, and two others (Dahvoud and Naser) were sentenced to one year in prison, which they began serving on May 1, 2013.
The Christians in Iran want us to pray for:
- That Robert will experience the presence and peace of Jesus and that he will be released soon.
- That he and other church leaders will receive wisdom from the Holy Spirit, especially regarding public worship services etc.
- That Farhad, Shahnaz, Davoud, Naser and all others detained because of their Christian faith and activities will experience Jesus' presence every day and His healing touch.
- That the sentences may be overturned and that they may be released soon.
- That all officials involved must love mercy, act justly, learn about Jesus and choose to follow Him.
Source Middle East Concern, a partner of the Danish European Mission.
