Dear Prayer Warrior

Believers all around the world are rejoicing over the wonderful news of Iranian Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani’s release from prison and reunification with his family. We know that this is a miracle and an answer to hundreds and thousands of prayers.

Pastor Yousef, 33, received a death sentence for apostasy in September 2010, was released on Saturday 8 September following a court hearing.

According to the organisation Middle East Concern, Pastor Yousef's previous conviction for apostasy was withdrawn. He was then "convicted on charges relating to evangelistic activities and sentenced to three years' imprisonment. The time already served (two years and 11 months) counts towards the new sentence. The court accepted a bail payment (in the form of a salary guarantee document) in order to release him one month early."

More than 20 Christians remain in prison in Iran because of their Christian activities, among them Pastor Farshid Fathi who has been sentenced to six years in prison.

While we delight in this wonderful news, we must not forget that in the minds of many Iranian Muslims, Yousef is still guilty of apostasy and must be killed. Therefore we urge you to please continue to pray for his safety and for that of his family. Also pray for other brothers and sisters who are harassed or unjustly detained on account of their faith in Christ, like Pastor Farshid Fathi who still remains in prison in Iran.

Together in His service

Open Doors South Africa

http://www.opendoors.org.za