The church in Iran is estimated to be home to the fastest growing church in the world. As a result, there is a huge need for trained church leaders to pastor this growing flock. For several years, we’ve been privileged to support the work of a training college for the next generation of leaders for the Iranian church.

Just over two years ago, we shared the story of Sophie and her husband asking for prayer. Sophie, whose name has been changed for security purposes, was training for ministry alongside her husband in this college. Coming from a Muslim background, she came to faith and has been a part of the college for many years. Alongside her studies, and with her husband, she has been involved with leading a network of underground churches in–country. 

Sophie was arrested along with her husband four years ago for “acting against national security”. In reality, they had been detained for helping plant new house churches. Sophie’s trial was held at the time we first shared this story. Sadly, she was sentenced to an eight–year prison sentence. Her husband received a lesser sentence of three years due to a medical condition. 

Sophie was resolute in the face of their imprisonment, and eager to “sing new songs” for the Lord in the place they had found themselves.

Over the past couple of years, their case has been taken to appeal, and wonderfully, earlier this month, their sentence was overturned and both will be released from prison! This development is an amazing answer to prayer. Our partners have been greatly concerned about the couple and especially Sophie’s husband whose medical condition has greatly exacerbated. 

The specifics and conditions of their release are still unknown and our partners have asked for prayer that that there would be no restrictions placed upon them. Pray also for the Lord to bring healing to Sophie’s husband and ease his symptoms.