Lent - day 14

Categories: christianity

Date: 12 March 2009 13:47:09

Today's country is Iran

Languages: Farsi, Azeri, Kurdish, regional languages

Christianity began to spread in Iran (formerly Persia) shortly after Jesus' death and resurrection. By 642 AD, 25% of the population was Christian; today it is estimated to be less than 1%.

The constitution guarantees freedom of belief but there are severe restrictions in practice. Church services cannot be held in Farsi and church membership must be submitted to the relevant authorities. Sharing your faith is strictly prohibited and the death penalty can be imposed for apostasy from Islam, for example.  Life for Christians is very difficult - particularly for converts (as opposed to those born into Christian families).