Fatemeh (Mary) Mohammadi is a Christian blogger who has openly expressed her concerns over the human rights abuses in Iran.
She was previously imprisoned for being a member of a house church. In April 2020, she received a suspended sentence, plus ten lashes for “disturbing public order”.
On 18 January, Mary was arrested again when the Gasht-e Ershad (an agency which enforces Iran’s Islamic dress code) determined that her hijab was not properly adjusted, her coat was unbuttoned and her pants were too tight. She has faced similar accusations in the past, though
Sources: Article18, International Christian Concern, Middle East Concern
..her primary ‘crime’ has been her faith in Christ.
Prior to the recent arrest, Mary was unable to return to her work as a gymnastics instructor, despite having good relations with her employer. According to Mary, it’s clear that her employer has received pressure from intelligence officials to prevent her from returning to her workplace. She was told by her former boss that they have a young child and, therefore, can’t take the risk of allowing her back at work.
Let us pray.
- Pray for Mary and the many other believers in Iran who are facing imprisonment, fines and other forms of persecution. Ask God for His protection and provision on their behalf.
- As Iranian Christians face continued opposition, pray they will receive wisdom to know how to aptly respond to their accusers and boldness to stand firm in their faith.
- Praise God for the zeal many Iranian believers have in sharing the Gospel.
Lord be with Mary as she faces yet again charges against her for simply being a christian in a country that despises you and christianity..Lord not only protect Mary,but also the many other believers who face persecution for their faith. Give them your wisdom, strength,love,peace,joy, grace and mercy to help them get through. We pray these christians will be a shining light to those who do not know you, so salvation can come to others too.
In your mighty name we pray.
Praying
God of the nations who deposes leaders and raises them up, you rule over all the affairs of men and women and we ask for your continued intervention in the life of the nation of Iran. We pray that your Gospel would progress in the lives and hearts of the Iranian Leadership and peoples and that as a nation they might become a wonderful witness to your grace and patience with this rebellious world. Give grace Lord to Mary and other believers that they might respond to their persecution in a manner worthy of the Lord and see many won to Christ. Embolden your people Father to be faithful, enduring and gracious witnesses to the truth.