Iran: Pastor's Year in Prison

Pastor Vahik Abrahamian, a 45-year-old Armenian Christian in the Republic of Iran, was reunited with his family after being released from prison on Monday morning, Aug. 29, 2011. According to reports obtained by Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN), Abrahamian’s health was severely damaged by the prison’s hygiene conditions, and his friends and family are concerned.

“The Christian community worldwide, particularly the Iranian Christian community, has been faithfully holding pastor Vahik in prayer. The news of worldwide prayer was a cause of comfort and strength and encouragement for the immediate family in Iran and overseas,” a FCNN spokesperson told ASSIST News Service.

On Sept. 4, 2011, security agents arrested Abrahamian, his wife and two friends and held them in solitary confinement for 44 days. During this time, the Christians underwent intense interrogations and psychological torture. On April 30, 2010, after eight months, Abrahamian’s wife and two friends were released when a court hearing decided they were not guilty, but Pastor Abrahamian was held back. An FCNN spokesperson said he was released after his family and friends posted a bail of 10 million Toomans (about $10,000) pending his trial.

Also a citizens of the Netherlands, Abrahamian and his wife live in Iran to minister to drug addicts and social outcasts. Abrahamian considers it the utmost priority and privilege to reach out to the outcasts ofsociety, reported FCNN.

Abrahamian was arrested once before in February 2010, held for 53 days in solitary confinement and five days in the general ward.

The family is currently rejoicing for God’s gracious protection and intervention, and they thank their Christian family worldwide who prayed and advocated on their behalf. Please continue to pray for Abrahamian’s physical and emotional healing.

Sources: Farsi Christian News Network, ASSIST News Service