One of the chapters in the Jesus Loves You book is called, Jesus Loves The Forgotten. A few weeks ago I heard about two
women that have been forgotten and wanted to do something. So, a few
friends and I put together a small website to help tell their story.
Please remember the forgotten. The website is http://www.freethemm.com.
Please check it out and spread the word. We will be sharing more about
this on the site as well. Here is a recap of their story.
On
March 5th two Iranian Christian women, Miss Marzieh Amirizadeh
Esmaeilabad (30), and Miss Maryam Rustampoor (27), were arrested by the
Iranian security forces, according to reports recieved by FCNN. Their
only crime is that they are committed Christians who follow the
teachings of Jesus. They are being unfairly labeled as ‘anti-government
activists’, because of the hostility of the government towards
practicing Christians.
Their
shared apartment was searched and personal belongings confiscated. They
were hand-cuffed and first taken to the police and security station 137
in Gysha, west of Tehran for interrogation. Later they were taken to
Vozara Detention Centre. Then they were taken to Branch 2 of the
National Security Section of the Revolutionary Court, they were sent to
the notorious Evin Prison where they are being held without charge.
They
have been told they could be freed on a bail of US$400,000. This
excessive bail level is unrealistic and is designed to intimidate and
make release impossible. The families have subsequently been told on
several occasions a judge is not available to discuss the case.
Both
women are allowed just a one minute telephone call every day to their
immediate families. Both are unwell and in need of Urgent medical
attention. During their last call on March 28 Marzieh said that she was
suffering from an infection and high fever. She said ‘Iam dying’.
There
has been a noted increase in government intimidation of the Christians.
Last year there were over 50 known cases of arrests and imprisonment.
There were some cases of Torture.
Iranian Christian leaders from around the world are calling for the immediate and unconditional release of Marzieh and Maryam.
We ask world governments to put pressure on Iran to ensure freedom of religion.
Prayers are being offered for their safe release. We ask Christians around the globe to continue to pray.