On May 22, Maryam Rustampoor and Marzieh Amirizadeh -- Iranian believers who were imprisoned for their Christian activities in March 2009 (click here for more information) -- were acquitted of all charges. Eager to thank those who have been praying for them, Marzieh shared, "We are most grateful to everyone who prayed for us. I have no doubt that God heard the prayers of His people." The women fled the same day that they were acquitted due to a warning from the Iranian judicial authorities that any future Christian activities would have severe consequences. They have reportedly arrived safely in another country. "We hope to eventually share some of what the Lord allowed us to go through to highlight the need and the opportunity for the church in Iran," Maryam shared. "But right now we will take time to pray and seek the Lord for His will."
A Christian couple that was arrested in February 2010 during a raid on their home in Isfahan (click here for more information) has been released following a large bail payment. Reyhaneh was released on May 16 and her husband, Hamid, was released three days later. They have been reunited with their teenage sons and are reportedly in good physical health. However, there is fear that their release is only temporary, as they expect to face a court hearing. (Sources: Elam Ministries, Farsi Christian News Network)
Praise the Lord that the charges against Maryam and Marzieh have been dropped! Pray that they will continue to boldly proclaim the Lord's work in their lives. Thank the Lord that Reyhaneh and Hamid have been released and reunited with their family. Pray that the charges against them will be dropped. Pray that the steadfast faith of these Iranian believers will encourage other Christians in the country who are suffering persecution.
Click here to find out more about persecution in Iran.
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