2nd October, 2015
More than 240 Iranians were baptised recently in two large celebrations in the Iran region.
According to Elam Ministries, a further 16 were baptised in a smaller service, and about 200 more are to be baptised at a fourth celebration.
“We praise God for every Iranian who has been baptised recently,” said a spokesperson for Elam Ministries.
“Seven friends, who were there to support those being baptised, responded to a call to submit their lives to Christ for the first time at one of last week’s celebrations. These large baptism services are joyful day-long gatherings, with sessions of worship, preaching, prayer for the nation of Iran, Holy Communion and shared meals.”
One of the baptisms followed a conference which the entire church attended; the theme of unity threaded through all the teaching, and encouraged the church greatly.
“We thank you for praying and supporting us as we seek to serve and equip Iran’s growing church,” added the spokesperson for Elam Ministries. “Please pray for all those who were baptised, the seven new believers, and those who will be baptised soon.”
The ministry has also called for prayer for the persecuted church, noting that those who have survived persecution often need just as much prayer as those currently enduring persecution. It is relatively common knowledge that Christians in Iran can be imprisoned for their faith. New arrests and prison sentences hit the prayer headlines quite regularly. But less well known is the potential long-term psychological damage that persecution can cause.
“Long after an abusive arrest, an extended stint in solitary, an intensive interrogation, or incarceration in a volatile ward, Christians can continue to suffer,” said a story published by the ministry. “Once released, the trauma is not necessarily over: whether it’s dark nightmares, flashbacks, paranoia, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder, the effects can sometimes be devastating and long-lasting. Especially for those who have endured physical or psychological torture, memories remain, fear and uncertainties cloud the mind, wounds need healing.
“Will you join us in praying for long-term healing for all those who are suffering following persecution? The support of friends, family and church members is vital for recovery; let’s pray for wisdom as they seek to love, care and pray for survivors. Let’s pray also that those that need professional counselling support would find it, and that all survivors would continue to bring their pain, memories and questions before Jehovah Rapha – our God who heals.”
– DAN WOODING, ASSIST News Service
