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Confronting Religious Persecution at the IRF Summit

Feb. 10Stories That Demand Action:

Last week I spoke on a panel at the International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit in Washington, D.C.—a global gathering that brings together advocates, policymakers, and legal experts from around the world who are on the front lines of defending religious freedom. The Summit provides a rare forum to share firsthand experiences, expose ongoing...More

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The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has once again become the site of unspeakable violence , with Christian communities being targeted by terrorists and militant forces. On February 15, over 70 Christians – primarily women, children, and the elderly – were added to the list of victims when they were abducted...More

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Saeed Abedini

This has been a week of progress in American Pastor Saeed’s case – a U.S. citizen wrongfully imprisoned in Iran for his Christian faith – but his pain and injuries remain an increasing concern.

On the same day that Pastor Saeed’s wife and young children were able to meet with President Obama in Pastor Saeed’s hometown here in the U.S., a member of his family in Iran was able to visit Pastor Saeed in prison – Saeed’s first visitor in more than a month.

Pastor Saeed’s stomach pain – lingering injuries from prison beatings – remains a concern.  Pastor Saeed expressed increased amounts of pain.  He has still not received the critical medical attention he needs in a private hospital.  He needs surgery.

But most of all he needs to be brought home.

While his family in Iran is grateful to have the opportunity to once again resume regular visits, it is difficult to see Pastor Saeed continue to suffer.

Despite his injuries, Pastor Saeed continues to remain upbeat and hopeful asking for news of his wife and kids. Saeed’s family member was also able to share with him encouraging stories of people praying and supporting him all over the world.

I am sure it will be an encouragement to him that the President of the United States took the time to meet with his family.  We don’t know if Pastor Saeed has yet heard the news, but it is being reported in the Persian media. We hope to have more updates next week as to Pastor Saeed’s condition and perhaps his reaction to the meeting between President Obama and his family.

This week represents a critical step toward his freedom.  Now we will continue to press forward and work with the Obama Administration to bring this loving husband and father – this tormented U.S. citizen – home to America.

Please continue to pray, share Pastor Saeed’s story, and sign the petition for Pastor Saeed’s freedom at BeHeardProject.com.

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