ICC Note:

Iran continues to demonstrate its intolerance for Christianity by sentencing three Christians to be flogged for drinking wine during Communion. Iranian police initially arrested five Christians but have since released a pastor and his wife. Iran’s judicial system is based on sharia law which forbids the consumption of wine, so Christians who choose to drink wine for religious reasons will be punished. Iran contends that the Christians are a national security risk and require an extensive punishment which could include anywhere from 10-100 lashes.  

09/28/2016 Iran (Express) – THREE Christians face being flogged after drinking Holy Communion wine as the Iranian authorities continue to crackdown on non-Islamic religions. In a shock move, oppressive officials in Tehran have charged the three with “acting against national security” for taking part in the Christian ritual.

The Christian converts are due to appear in court next week and if found guilty face punishment by flogging.

Iranian police arrested Yasser Mossayebzadeh, Saheb Fadaie and Mohammad Reza Omidi in May, alongside Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani and his wife. The pastor and his wife have since been released without charge but the trio remain behind bars.

Holy Communion wine, also known as sacramental wine, is used by billions of Christians worldwide in celebration of the Eucharist. It is often watered down and is used during Holy Communion alongside small bread wafers, known as Sacramental Bread.

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