Iranian pastor jailed for protesting Islamic teaching of children
by Staff
November 16, 2009
(christiansunite.com) - The Voice of the Martyrs recently learned of the arrest of Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani in Guilan, Iran on October 12 after he protested against the decision of local authorities to impose the reading of the Koran on Christian children. This requirement, Pastor Nadarkhani insisted, violates the Declaration of Universal Human Rights (which Iran has signed) that states: "Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that shall be given to their children" (Article 26).
Authorities told the pastor that he went too far with this protest. "Not happy with the fact that we tolerate you, you pushed too far your boldness by refusing that your children follow Koranic courses." At last report, Pastor Nadarkhani remained in detention.
Pray for Christians in Iran as they continue to serve the Lord despite great opposition. Pray for Pastor Nadarkhani's release. Pray that he will have continued courage to stand up for his convictions.
For more information on the persecution of Christians in Iran, see www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
