On 4th April we requested prayer for pastor Behrouz Sadegh-Khandjani and four others who faced a district court hearing on for 5th April in Shiraz. At that hearing the judge announced that more time was needed to collate evidence of their 'blasphemy against Islam', and so adjourned the hearing for a week. At the hearing on 12th April the judge again failed to reach a verdict, claiming that he needed to consult with leaders of Iran's traditional Christian communities. Leaders within this church network consider that consultation with Iran's recognised churches will not be helpful, as many other churches distance themselves from their network because of doctrinal differences.

Recall that Behrouz is a second generation Christian, who was released on bail on 15th February, having been held in prison since 16th June 2010. The four other believers were also detained for shorter periods in early 2010. On 8th March the five were convicted of anti-state activity in the Revolutionary court and sentenced to one year's imprisonment. They are appealing that sentence.

Elsewhere, a believer from a Muslim background (BMB) arrested in Tehran on 26th  December was released on bail on 9th April. Another BMB was offered release on bail but his family has been unable to raise the large sum requested. Among others also known to remain in prison are four believers detained on 4th September 2010 in Hamedan and three detained on 17th March in Kermanshah.

Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani is still awaiting the Supreme Court's response to his appeal following his conviction for apostasy in September and sentencing to death.

Iranian Christians request our prayers that:

a.  Those facing court hearings will know the Spirit's enabling wisdom, and will be acquitted

b.  Any charges against those released on bail will be dropped, and the bail money returned

c.  Those detained for their faith will know the presence and peace of Jesus, and be released soon

d.  Pastor Yousef's appeal will be upheld, and the charges against him will be dropped

e.  Christians throughout Iran will not be intimidated but will know peace and joy in the Lord Jesus

f.  All officials involved will love mercy, act justly, learn about Jesus and choose to follow Him

Source: http://www.givengain.com/cgi-bin/giga.cgi?c=1489