T e h e r a n (idea) - In Iran, more than 120 Christian Church Leaders have called for a 40-day prayer and fasting time for their country. The campaign has started on Ascention Day (May 25). In the internet under www.prayforiran.com, prayer requests will be published daily. As to Sam Yeghnazar, director of Elam Mission (Godalming/South England), Iranians call Christians in all the world to join them in prayer.

Yeghnazar refers to the difficult political and religious situation in Iran. The international community has severe objections against the nuclear program of the Iranian Republic. President of State Mahmud Ahmadinedjhad denies the Holocaust and had demanded to erase Israel off the map. This could develop into a major worldwide crisis, says Yeghnazar. "Critical times request dramatic actions", he states the reason for the prayer initiative.

Jesus reveals Himself in dreams
The Christian minority in Iran suffers persecution and restraints since the Islamic Revolution in 1979. The pressure increased even more these last years. At the same time, churches are growing vast: "Men, women, young and old folks alike are putting their trust in Jesus Christus." Since the majority of Iranians don't have access to Bibles, Jesus often reveals Himself in dreams. It is essential to pray for another revival. Says Yeghnazar, "A strong Christian Church in Iran will impact the whole region." As to official statements, 99 % of the 66,4 million population in Iran are Muslims. The number of Christians is being estimated by the worldwide Evangelical Alliance of 300.000.

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