Posted on 31^st December 2012

Greetings in the name of Jesus,

Iranian Christians request prayer following a raid on a house meeting in Tehran on 27^th December. Approximately 50 believers had gathered to celebrate Christmas, most of whom were from Muslim backgrounds.

A group of 15 police and security agents interrupted the celebration. Acting courteously, they required all attendees to complete a detailed pre-prepared questionnaire. Information requested included contact details, email and social media ID and password information, and details of how they had come to accept Christianity. Mobile phones were confiscated and they were advised that they would be summoned individually to the local security office following investigation.

One of those present, Pastor Vruir Avanessian who is of Armenian descent, was taken by the security agents and remains detained in Evin prison, Tehran. According to reports, some security agents proceeded from the Christmas gathering to the home of Pastor Vruir where they confiscated computer equipment, CDs and literature. His wife and children were at the home during this raid.

There is serious concern for Pastor Vruir’s health. He has chronic kidney disease for which he requires dialysis twice a week. There have been fears that, whilst detained, he will not receive the medical attention he requires. However, on 31^st December it was confirmed that he had been escorted by prison guards to a hospital to receive dialysis treatment, and then returned to the prison.

Iranian Christians supporting Pastor Vruir and his family request our prayers that:

 
a. Vruir will know the peace, presence and strength of Jesus and will be released soon
b. He will continue to receive the medical treatment he requires

c. His wife and children will know the comfort and protection of Jesus each day
d. The others present at the Christmas gathering will know the peace of Jesus, that the investigations will be dropped and they will face no further legal proceedings
e. Christians in Iran will know the Spirit’s wisdom, especially concerning when and where to meet for worship

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

Public sources used: Mohabat News

May be circulated to general mailing lists, outside organizations, and quoted from freely in reports citing "Middle East Concern" as the source of the information.