Fatemeh (Mary) Mohammadi is a Christian blogger who has openly expressed her concerns over the human rights abuses in Iran.
She was previously imprisoned for being a member of a house church. In April 2020, she received a suspended sentence, plus ten lashes for “disturbing public order”.
On 18 January, Mary was arrested again when the Gasht-e Ershad (an agency which enforces Iran’s Islamic dress code) determined that her hijab was not properly adjusted, her coat was unbuttoned and her pants were too tight. She has faced similar accusations in the past, though her primary ‘crime’ has been her faith in Christ.
Prior to the recent arrest, Mary was unable to return to her work as a gymnastics instructor, despite having good relations with her employer. According to Mary, it’s clear that her employer has received pressure from intelligence officials to prevent her from returning to her workplace. She was told by her former boss that they have a young child and, therefore, can’t take the risk of allowing her back at work.
Sources: VOM Australia, Article18, International Christian Concern, Middle East Concern
Pray for Mary and the many other believers in Iran who are facing imprisonment, fines and other forms of persecution. Ask God for His protection and provision on their behalf.
As Iranian Christians face continued opposition, pray they will receive wisdom to know how to aptly respond to their accusers and boldness to stand firm in their faith.
Praise God for the zeal many Iranian believers have in sharing the Gospel.