Two Young Iranian Christian Women in Notorious Evin Prison
On March 5th 2009, two Iranian Christian women, Miss Marzieh Amirizadeh Esmaeilabad (30), and Miss Maryam Rustampoor (27), were arrested by the Iranian security forces. Their only crime is that they are committed Christians who follow the teachings of Jesus. They are being unfairly labeled as ‘anti-government activists’, because of the hostility of the government towards practising Christians.
Their shared apartment was searched and personal belongings confiscated. They were hand-cuffed and first taken to the Police and Security Station 137 in Gysha, West of Tehran for interrogation. Later they were taken to Vozara Detention Centre. Then they were taken to the Branch 2 of the National Security Section of the Revolutionary Court. Afterwards, several sessions of interrogation took place. Finally, on March 18th, after appearing at the Revolutionary Court, they were sent to the notorious Evin Prison where they are being held without charge.
They have been told they could be freed on a bail of US$ 400,000. This excessive bail level is unrealistic and is designed to intimidate and make the release impossible. The families have subsequently been told on several occasions a judge is not available to discuss the case.
Both women are allowed just a one minute telephone call every day to their immediate families. Both are unwell and in need of urgent medical attention. During their last call on March 28 Marzieh said that she was suffering from an infection and high fever. She said ‘I am dying’.
There has been a noted increase in government intimidation of the Christians. Last year they were over 50 known cases of arrests and imprisonment. They were some cases of torture.
Iranian Christian leaders from around the world are calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Marzieh and Maryam.
We ask world governments to put pressure on Iran to ensure freedom of religion.
Prayers are being offered for their safe release. We ask Christians around the globe to continue to pray.
What is Prayforiran.org?
Prayforiran.com is a website dedicated to encouraging prayer for the nation and people of Iran. As well as highlighting special prayer needs, the site provides 40 subjects for prayer to help you and your church pray intelligently for Iran. Simply click on one of the 40 links to take you to a page which will help you learn about the subject and guide you in praying. Each page has a slide show with images from Iran accompanied by some Persian worship music to help you intercede.
This site was launched by Elam Ministries in May 2006 when over 120 Iranian church leaders pledged to 40 days of prayer and fasting for Iran. They also issued a call to the global Church to join in praying for the strategic country of Iran. Many thousands across the world responded and joined in praying for Iran, and the site became available in nine languages.
Why Pray And Fast For Iran?
Iran has long played a leading role in the Islamic world. These days it is at the centre of a global crisis that could easily lead to war, deep political turmoil and economic chaos. We need to fall on our knees and pray that God, in His mercy, will intervene.
Also, the rapidly growing Iranian church is on the brink of unprecedented growth. Despite the prospect of persecution, men and women, young and old are putting their faith in Jesus Christ – many as a result of dreams and visions. We need to thank God for the open hearts and we want to cry out for a great revival. A strong church in Iran will impact the entire region.
What Are We Praying For?
For the persecuted Church in Iran – The Church has experienced severe persecution and restrictions since the 1979 revolution. In the last year, this intimidation of Christians has intensified. We pray for protection, wisdom and boldness for our brothers and sisters in Iran.
For Revival in Iran – Most of Iran’s 70 million people have never had the opportunity to hear the Gospel. We pray that every Iranian will hear and understand the Gospel and that millions will repent and be saved.
For God to intervene in the political situation – We pray that God will give Iran righteous and humble leaders who will act justly and love mercy.
How To Pray
We encourage you to pray with faith and love for the people of Iran, not with fear and prejudice. Let the Lord show you how much he loves and cares for the people of Iran, just as he loved and cared for the people of Nineveh as in the story of Jonah. Secondly, please focus your prayers on the people of Iran – that they would come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Don’t concentrate only on the political situation.
Finally, please let as many others know about this website as you can. Thank you so much for praying for Iran. To God be the Glory.