We are pleased to report that several believers detained in Iran have been released on bail.
Maasis Mosesian, an elder of the Assemblies of God church in Tehran who was arrested on 8th February, was released on bail on 16th February.
Farhad and Naser, who were among four detained when the AoG church in Ahvaz was raided on 23rd December 2011, were released on bail on 21st February. Recall that Farhad's wife, Shahnaz, was released on bail on 1st January. Davoud remains detained. Property title deeds were submitted as bail for Shahnaz, Farhad and Naser.
Previously we mentioned concerns about Farhad's health, as needed medication was refused. We have received news that although he was not physically mistreated in prison, he does suffer, both physically and emotionally, from the effects of his detention.
Some recent reports regarding Yousef Nadarkhani suggest that an order for his execution may have been issued. At present there is no confirmation of such reports, but verification efforts are continuing. Recall that Yousef was arrested in October 2009 and is awaiting confirmation of a death sentence for apostasy which was upheld in provincial court hearings in September 2011. He remains detained.
Others who remain detained in Iran because of their Christian faith include Noorallah (detained since December 2010), Farshid (detained since December 2010, awaiting a verdict following a court hearing on 5th February), Behnam (detained since May 2011), Mehdi (detained since September 2011), Fariborz and Ehsan (both detained since November 2011) and up to seven believers in Shiraz (detained since 8th February). Many others previously released on bail are still awaiting possible court hearings.
Iranian Christians supporting these believers request our prayers that:
a. Maasis, Farhad and Naser will know the presence of Jesus as they adjust to normal life
b. All charges against them, and others released on bail, will be dropped, and the bail money and title deeds returned
c. Yousef will know the presence and peace of Jesus, his life will be spared and he will be reunited with his family soon
d. Davoud, Noorallah, Farshid, Bahnam, Mehdi, Fairborz, Ehsan and a number of believers in Shiraz will know the presence, peace and protection of Jesus, and be released soon
e. All officials involved will love mercy, act justly, learn about Jesus and choose to follow Him.
Open sources used: FCNN, Mohabat News
Website: www.meconcern.org
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