Illegal to convert, illegal to preach
In what is often referred to as the gateway to the Middle East, Christians in Iran are forbidden from sharing their faith with non-Christians. Consequently, church services in Persian (Iran’s national language) are not allowed. Converts from Islam face persecution from the government. If they attend an underground house church, they face the constant threat of arrest. Iranian society is governed by Islamic law, which means the rights and professional possibilities for Christians are heavily restricted.
How Christians are suffering
Converts from Islam to Christianity bear the brunt of Christian persecution, especially by the government and, to a lesser extent, by their families and society. The government sees them as an attempt by Western countries to undermine Islam and the Islamic regime of Iran. Leaders of groups of Christian converts have been arrested, prosecuted and have received long prison sentences for “crimes against the national security.” The historical communities of Armenian and Assyrian Christians are recognized and protected by the state but are treated as second-class citizens and are not allowed contact with Muslim background Christians. They are also not allowed to conduct church services in the national language.
Examples
Many Christians (especially converts) have been prosecuted and sentenced to long terms in jail. Others are still awaiting trial. During this time, their families face public humiliation. Several house churches were raided during the 2019 World Watch List reporting period, including arrests or detainment of entire congregations. Most are no longer functioning as house churches.
Pray for Iran
Any Muslim who leaves Islam faces a charge of apostasy, and can be thrown in jail or worse. Pray that the laws will change, allowing for freedom of religion.Nearly all churches that held services in Persian have been closed in recent years and their leaders were arrested. Pray for Christians in Iran’s prisons to have genuine love for their guards and fellow inmates.Pray for secret believers who meet in house churches, that they will be protected and will be faithful witnesses to the surrounding culture.
Iran Photo Gallery
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Stories from Iran
July 15, 2019
Convicted of being part of a house church in Tehran, this young woman is standing up for Christians in Iran, especially converts. Read More
July 14, 2019
Five Iranian converts to Christianity have submitted themselves to the central detention center in Karaj to begin their jail sentences for “propaganda against the state.” Read More
July 10, 2019
Christian persecution is on the rise, and these are some of the worst offenders and persecutors of Christians around the world. Read More