Update on Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani
Hi Friends,
Youcef Nadarkhani, sentenced to death a year ago after a court of appeals in Rasht, Iran, found him guilty of leaving Islam in September 2010, is in deteriorating health, according to a member of Nadarkhani's denomination, the Church of Iran, who requested anonymity. He said that communication with Nadarkhani is limited, but that sources close to the imprisoned Christian indicated that he has undergone physical and psychological torture. "Certainly he was hit, but his [telephone] conversations are heard [by authorities]," the source said. "We know that he has been in extreme situations, and we consider that torture. When you have spent time in a solitary cell unable to talk to others for a long time, or you are told you will be killed, this is also torture."
Authorities have also continued to pressure Nadarkhani to recant his faith while in prison. The court in Rasht was expected to pronounce a verdict on Nadarkhani's appeal last month but instead sent the Christian's case to the nation's Islamic authority, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, to make a ruling. Some sources indicate a ruling could come the second half of December.
Let continue to pray for Pastor Youcef, his family, his congregation and those with earthly authority over his case.
Blessings,
Mark and Amy Renfroe
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