Captive in Iran

March 11, 2013
The authors’ Christian evangelism in Iran caused them to suffer unimaginable dimensions of persecution. Iranian law lets people openly practice their religion, but it is a crime to convert others from Islam. They were arrested in 2009 and spent 259 days in Evin Prison among some of the worst conditions and with Iran’s worst criminals. “The filth, bad food, poor medical care, and lack of exercise and fresh air in prison made it practically impossible to stay healthy.” Their story became worldwide news on the Voice of America, Radio Farda, and the Internet. The case was brought before the United Nations and the Vatican got involved. A prayer vigil commenced in front of the Iranian embassy in London. Even while imprisoned, Rostampour and Amirizadeh continued to freely profess their faith. The women they meet in Evin strengthen their faith and inspire the reader. Good luck or a series of miracles occur: because of court mistakes, the charges are dismissed and the two women leave Iran and now live in Atlanta. This is a powerful story of Christian courage that will appeal to anyone struggling with faith.