In December we asked for prayer for Iranian Christians during the Christmas and New Year period. In three towns, new Christian believers from a Muslim background (BMBs) were summoned to the offices of the secret police where they were forced to sign documents stating that they would not meet together to celebrate Christmas. Elsewhere, the leaders of BMB house fellowships in at least three provinces were threatened with serious consequences if they had further dealings with other Christian leaders, either inside or outside of Iran.

Iranian Christians give thanks that there was no significant increase in arrests over the Christmas and New Year period, and that in some parts of the country believers were able to celebrate together.

However, on 21st January at least ten Christians were arrested in Tehran. One, named Hamik, is known to be an Armenian Christian. Others, including a married couple called Jamal and Nadereh, are BMBs. There are reports of similar arrests in several other cities.

This wave of arrests indicates that the Iranian authorities are continuing their concerted campaign against Christians, as well as against other religious and ethnic minority groups. In addition to increased numbers of arrests, 2008 saw the Iranian parliament approve legislation that would make apostasy (i.e. leaving Islam) a capital offence within Iran's penal code. This legislation is still awaiting the approval of the Guardians Council (which scrutinises all legislation for compliance with Islamic principles)

and authorisation by the Supreme Leader.

Several believers arrested and released in 2008 are still waiting to be informed of the dates of court hearings. Previous cases suggest that some may never receive a hearing date and that their cases might end quietly, though sometimes without the return of bail money. Others may be informed of hearing dates which are then repeatedly rescheduled.

Iranian Christians request our prayers that:

a. Hamik, Jamal, Nadereh and others arrested last week will know the Lord's presence and enabling in prison

b. All those detained for their faith will be released soon

c. The ongoing wave of arrests will end

d. Any believers who do appear in court will know the Spirit's guiding throughout the proceedings

e. Any that do appear in court will know the Spirit's guiding throughout their court hearing

f. The proposed changes to the penal code concerning apostasy will be dropped

g. All officials involved will hear the good news of Jesus

January 2009