Wednesday, April 15, 2009

VOICE OF THE MARTYRS - Prisoner Alert

As I enjoy the MANY blessings that God is bestowing on me, I am ever mindful that none of us know for sure what our future here in this life holds for us.





Location: Iran (Islamic Republic of)

Arrested: March 2009

Days Imprisoned: 41



On March 5, Marzieh Amirizadeh Esmaeilabad and Maryam Rustampoor were arrested by Iranian security forces and labeled "anti-government activists," according to Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN).

Thirty year-old Marzieh and 27-year-old Maryam are being held at Evin Prison, which is notorious for treating women badly. "Both women are allowed just a one-minute telephone call everyday to their immediate families. Both are unwell and in need of urgent medical attention," FCNN reported. During their last call on March 28, Mazieh said that she was suffering from an infection and high fever. She said, "I am dying."Marzieh and Maryam's apartment was searched and their belongings were confiscated.



"Their only crime is that they are committed Christians who follow the teachings of Jesus,"





FCNN added. “They are being unfairly labeled as 'anti government activists' because of the hostility of the government towards practicing Christians."The women have reportedly been interrogated numerous times and were held in three different police detention centers before being sent to Evin Prison. FCNN reported an exorbitant bail amount of US$ 400,000 has been set even though Marzieh and Maryam's families have been told on numerous occasions that a judge is not available to discuss the case.

Marzieh and Maryam's arrest is the latest incident highlighting increased government intimidation of Christians in Iran. Believers are subjected to surveillance, arrests, imprisonment, and sometimes torture.

Please join me in prayer for these two young woman who are paying the price for their faith.

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12 comments:

Tammy ~ Country Girl at Home ~ said...

I will be praying, Susan. I used to receive the Voice of Martyrs magazine...not sure why I haven't gotten one lately.

Tammy

Mari said...

I heard recently a statistic that mentioned how many people have been matyred in the last 10 years and was astounded. It's a good reminder to pray for those who are being tortured for their faith.

Nadine said...

I join you in prayer for their protection, healing and release.

Sharon said...

Prayers were said for these women.
Thank you for the heart wrenching post.
God Bless.

... said...

my prayers are with these two young, courageous women.

Karen said...

I pray for a hedge of protection around these ladies, and a speedy release. That God will open the doors for their freedom and heal their sickness. In Jesus Name'

Tina said...

praying Susan. I always consider it such an honor to pray for our persecuted brethren. Thanks so much for posting this.

Maxine said...

Bless them. May the Lord be glorified in their lives! I have been hearing of so many persecuted believers of late. Thanks you for bringing these too beautiful women - who love Jesus - before us for prayer, Susan.

Sohailah said...

I used to get this magazine. It is wonderful - such an amazing reminder of how precious our faith is and that we TRULY cannot take it for granted.

Unknown said...

"Oh thank you Lord for my freedom. Help us to do all we must to hang on to it"

Debra said...

May God bless and help those that suffer for His sake!

Kathy said...

Susan, thank you for this timely reminder. Praying for Christians around the world is critical and goes by so unnoticed, especially with our self-consuming ways. I thank you for this. Kathy