 Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani remains in Lakan Prison in Iran. Photo: Present Truth Ministries |
With his faith intact and his love for Christ steadfast, Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani remains in Lakan Prison in Iran charged with apostasy and sentenced to death. The Iranian government has denied the sentencing is based on apostasy despite abundant evidence to the contrary (for more, click here).
The court in Gilan is awaiting a response to their two letters of referral that were written to the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Khameini. Youcef's attorney has said the court will wait one month for a response. If they do not receive a response, they will issue a ruling sometime in mid-December.
According to a member of Pastor Youcef's denomination who requested anonymity, Youcef's health has deteriorated and he has undergone physical and psychological torture. "We know that he has been in extreme situations, and we consider that torture," the source said. "When you have spent time in a solitary cell unable to talk to others for a long time, or you are told you will be killed, this is also torture."
Please pray that Pastor Youcef will remain healthy and strong despite the burdens of imprisonment. Pray that the worldwide attention garnered by his persecution will increase pressure on Iranian officials to stop harassing and imprisoning Christians. Please pray that Youcef and his family will experience a peace that surpasses all understanding as they endure these trials (Philippians 4:7).
For more on the trials believers face in Iran, go to the Iran Country Report.
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