VOM workers and others have been notified of an International Day of Prayer and Fasting for the Syrian Church to be held on Saturday, May 11th, 2013. Syrian churches from all denominations will be unified in seeking God for mercy on their country. They are asking Christians worldwide to join them by praying for divine protection of the Church in Syria.
What a privilege it is to unite our hearts together with believers from around the world, including our Christian brothers and sisters in Syria, regarding this critical situation. In the midst of the war, suffering and persecution, may God somehow make His presence and power known among the various people groups of this very troubled land. May the "Prince of Peace" bring comfort to the multitudes who are grieving loss and heartache, healing to the wounded, and salvation to the spiritually lost.
Important Note: The Voice of the Martyrs Canada is a founding member of the Religious Liberty Partnership (RLP). With members from over 20 countries, the RLP works intentionally in addressing advocacy and raising awareness of religious persecution globally. RLP's most recent news report and accompanying statement on the crisis in Syria is available online at
www.rlpartnership.org/news.
IRAN: Pastor Saeed Transferred From Solitary Confinement
Sources: Mohabat News, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, American Center for Law and Justice
Pastor Saeed Abedini, who was sentenced to eight years in prison in January for "actions against the national security of Iran," has just been transferred from solitary confinement back to a cell on the regular ward. The American-Iranian husband and father of two young children had recently participated in a peaceful courtyard protest over the mistreatment of inmates in Evin Prison where he is currently being held. The protest reportedly angered prison officials, who subsequently put Pastor Saeed and nine other prisoners in solitary confinement. He had also signed a petition which criticized the lack of medical care for prisoners and the mistreatment of their families during visits.
Despite the good news of his transfer, there is still concern over Pastor Saeed’s health. He is reportedly suffering severe internal bleeding as a result of receiving regular beatings in prison, and there are concerns that his kidneys may not be functioning properly. Unfortunately, he has been refused medical treatment by prison authorities.
"Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor His ear too dull to hear" (Isaiah 59:1). While we can be assured that God is hearing our prayers on behalf of Pastor Saeed, like the Biblical story of the persistent widow who kept petitioning the judge, let us continue upholding this faithful pastor and other fellow believers who are presently incarcerated in Evin Prison. May God protect and strengthen them spiritually, physically, emotionally and mentally so they will serve as effective witnesses of His power during their incarceration. As He is working on behalf of their eventual release, pray that He will also work mightily in the hearts of all who are affiliated with this prison, including the unsaved officials and prisoners.
LIBYA: Christian Workers Released
Source: The Voice of the Martyrs
Libyan authorities have released an Egyptian national and three other foreigners who were arrested on February 10th in Benghazi for allegedly illegally importing Christian materials. The Egyptian national is now recuperating at home with his wife and two children. To read a previous report regarding the situation, please go to
www.persecution.net/ly-2013-02-28.htm.
"Although he and the others suffered for the sake of the Master's name, they received it with great joy and with an attitude of willingness to suffer for Christ," a VOM contact wrote. "As we update you about this, we would like to thank you so much for your prayers and support...during this last period until all those who were involved in the crisis were released. We pray now for post traumatic relief for the workers who came back and seek direction for the next phase in their lives."
We can be thankful for this encouraging answer to prayer, praising God for the release of these four believers and for sustaining them throughout this difficult trial. Pray that they will continue to rejoice over the opportunities they've received to further develop in the character of our Lord Jesus (James 1:2-4) and serve as a strong witness of His sustaining grace. May He use their testimony to encourage the faith of other believers and to reach all who are earnestly seeking salvation.
ADDITIONAL PRISONER UPDATE
IRAN: Ebrahim's Temporary Release from Prison
Source: Mohabat News
Ebrahim Firouzi was temporarily released on bail of 30 million Tomans (approximately $20,000 CDN) on April 29th, 2013, after spending 53 days in Evin prison. Iranian security authorities had arrested the 28-year-old Christian convert for the second time at his workplace on March 7th, 2013, confiscating his personal belongings, including his computer and some Christian literature. For more about this case, go to
www.persecution.net/ir-2013-03-28.htm.
Prison and judicial officials had charged Ebrahim with launching and administering a Christian missionary website, distributing Bibles, cooperating with student activists and taking actions against national security. Also, cooperating with Mohabat News was the basis for one of his charges. It has been reported that his next court appearance is scheduled to be held on June 19th.
While we can be thankful for Ebrahim's temporary release, we are reminded of the need to continue praying for his vindication as the date of the upcoming court hearing approaches. May God's favour and peace continue to rest upon this brave young man who has withstood great obstacles and opposition for his Christian faith from governing forces. Ask that the Lord will continue working on his behalf prior to the court case, preparing the hearts of the officials by giving them a reverential fear of God, revealing to them the truth of His Word, and allowing them to experience the reality of His profound presence.
