Potential Seizure of Historic Church Complex

A historic Christian compound in Tehran, which was established in 1876 and home to Iran's oldest Protestant church, is facing possible confiscation by the country's government. The recent threat marks the culmination of a long-standing legal battle that started over 25 years ago.

St. Peter Evangelical Church was built by American missionaries on 10 hectares of land granted by the Persian monarch. The complex now consists of a church building, two schools and dozens of residential homes. For nearly 150 years, it has served Tehran's Assyrian and Armenian Christian communities.

In 1998, authorities ordered that the land be transferred to the Islamic government, along with several other church properties across the country. However, the ruling was not enforced at that time. In 2008, the Council of Evangelical Churches learned of the decision and protested, but all appeals were ultimately rejected. Given the substantial size and location of the complex in central Tehran, the property has significant value.

Recently, governing authorities ordered 20 families living within the compound to vacate their homes within two weeks. Members of the congregation have also been informed that they must find another church to attend. (In order to identify members of the congregation, security personnel reportedly attended a recent worship service.)

St. Peter Evangelical Church is one of the last remaining Protestant congregations in the city. Its potential closure is viewed as another indication of the shrinking space afforded to minority religious communities within the country. More information concerning the persecution of Iranian Christians may be reviewed at our country profile.

• Pray that this historic church facility will be allowed to remain open to Christians in the community, and that the families residing on the property would be permitted to stay in their homes.
• In the event that the relocation orders are enforced by Iranian authorities, please pray that the affected families and church leaders will receive God's divine peace, provision, clear direction, as well as the ongoing reassurance that He will meet their every need.
• Intercede on behalf of other congregations throughout Iran that are facing similar forms of intimidation, pressure and oppression, asking the Lord to strengthen their faith and sustain them in their witness to others who need hope and eternal salvation – including those who oppose them.
• Continue to remember the many ministries and outreach initiatives that are faithfully shining the light of Jesus amid the darkness of this war-torn, oppressive nation.