Iran: update on house church Leader couple arrested on 28 February
ICC Note:
Middle East Concern reports that two Iranian pastors have been released from prison in mid-May after paying bail. However, charges have not been dropped, and prayer is still needed.
5/21/2010 Iran (Middle East Concern) – On 3rd March we first requested prayer for Hamid and Reyhaneh, both believers from a Muslim background, and their two teenage sons. Hamid and Reyhaneh were arrested in Isfahan on 28th February.
We are pleased to report that both have been released, Reyhaneh on Sunday 16th May and Hamid on Wednesday 19th May, following a large bail payment. They have been reunited with their sons and are reportedly in good physical health. Their release may be temporary as they expect to face a court hearing to answer charges. There is no indication of when the court hearing will take place.
Recall that the couple are leaders of a house fellowship and that Hamid has regularly been summoned and questioned by the Information Ministry in recent years. They were arrested during a raid on their home by approximately 20 police officers, during which personal possessions were confiscated and other believers present were threatened.
Others recently released on bail and also awaiting possible court proceedings include Vahik (Tehran), Daniel (Isfahan), Reza and Saeed (Tabriz), Maryam and Marzieh (Tehran). Among those still detained are Bahnam and Amin (Karaj).
Iranian Christians give thanks for the release of Hamid and Reyhaneh and thank us for our prayers. They request our continued intercession that:
a. Hamid, Reyhaneh and their sons will know the presence and healing touch of Jesus as they adjust to normal life
b. Those still detained will know the peace of Jesus each day and will be released soon
c. Charges against all those recently released on bail will be dropped
d. Iranian believers will know the Father's protection and the Spirit's wisdom, and be strengthened and not intimidated by recent events
e. All officials involved will act justly, love mercy, hear the gospel of Jesus and respond to his love
