Pastor’s Case Stalled

UPDATE: A pastor sentenced to death for apostasy remains in prison in IRAN. A judge has reportedly stalled the case, possibly for another year, and ordered that continued pressure be put upon the pastor to recant.

Ask God to give him boldness and peace. “Oh, save Your people and bless Your heritage! Be their shepherd and carry them forever.”

Updated from previous prayer request: Pastor Still Awaiting Death Sentence

LEARN MORE: The Waiting Continues

Pastor Yousef (alternatively spelled Youcef) Naddarkhani has been in jail for a long time, and may remain there for quite a while longer. He was arrested and imprisoned in October 2009, sentenced to death a year later, and now after a second year his case has been delayed again.

Those who receive the prayer guide have been praying for Yousef regularly since September 2010. (Other prayer requests: 12/12/10, 1/24/11, 3/30/11, 8/2/11, 9/14/11, 11/22/11, 12/23/11)  Thank you to everyone who has been faithfully praying for him!

Some reports indicate that the continued delays in the case may be precisely calculated to make Christians forget about Yousef. His execution could be delayed for as much as a year. Other reports, however, indicate that the delay may be much shorter. Throughout Yousef’s case, written decisions have been sparse, creating uncertainty about what the Iranian government will do.

Can you imagine the pressure that he, his wife, and two sons must be under right now? Iranian authorities continue to try to make him recant, offering immediate freedom if he does so. Yet Yousef remains steadfast in his faith.

If you would like to stay updated with prayer requests about this pastor sentenced to death and imprisoned in Iran, you can request the (monthly) print or (weekly) email prayer guide here.

“Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him…”—Psalm 37:7a