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4th January, 2012
DAN WOODING
Assist News Service
The brutal attack on the Assemblies of God (AOG) church of Ahwaz on 23rd December, 2011, seems to have psychologically affected the children who were arrested in a harsh manner by security authorities. In this connection, Iranian and non-Iranian Christians and churches are invited to reassure these children by sending cards of encouragement.
"The Hamgam Council of Iranian Churches is inviting all Iranian and foreign churches to send cards of encouragement to the children who were mentally affected during the raid."
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According to the Iranian Christian news agency, Mohabat News, following the attack by security authorities on the AOG church of Ahwaz at Christmas, the Hamgam Council of Iranian Churches is inviting all Iranian and foreign churches to send cards of encouragement to the children who were mentally affected during the raid.
"Based on earlier reports received, the security authorities had their faces covered and treated the Sunday school children of the church badly as they arrested them. This frightening ordeal deeply affected these children's minds," said a spokesperson for Mohabat News.
According to Article 14 of the International Convention on the Rights of the Child concerning freedom of thought and religion, "Governments should honor the freedom of thought and religion of children and the right of the parents to provide direction to their own child."
The news agency told the Assist News Service that "the Islamic Republic of Iran adopted the International Convention on the Rights of the Child and is obliged to apply its provisions in Iran. Seventeen years have passed since acceptance of this convention and the Iranian regime should explain why they treat children, who were present with their parents at a religious place, like criminals and take them to security centers and jails that were intended for criminals?!
"The Hamgam Council of Iranian Churches is inviting all Iranian and foreign churches to send cards of encouragement to the children who were mentally affected during the raid."
It added, "The children in the Sunday schools of other churches are also called to take part in this campaign and demonstrate their solidarity with the children who were prevented from celebrating our Savior's birth."
The cards of encouragement can be sent to Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) at the address below where the cards will be forwarded to the affected children.
"Let's hope these cards will help wipe this bitter experience from the minds of the children of the AOG church of Ahwaz," concluded the news agency.
The cards can be sent to:
Christian Solidarity Worldwide
PO Box 99,
New Malden,
Surrey KT3 3YF
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