Some readers may find the following distressing.

Christian believers in Iran are facing increasingly severe persecution for their faith. A tightening of the penal code in 2021 means more believers are facing harsh sentences, and - although exact numbers are difficult to establish - it seems more Christians are being arrested and interrogated.

The willingness to physically mistreat Christian detainees appears to be increasing also: we are aware of a brother who endured severe sexual assault, as well as beatings and psychological torture, during interrogation in 2022, and another who was held for many months in pre-trial detention despite suffering with a long-term health condition.

This intensification is corroborated by the findings of Open Doors, who recently published their 2023 World Watch List. Iran is listed as the 8th hardest nation in which to live as a Christian (up from 9th position in 2022).

Iran's church is growing in part because Iranian Christians are willing to pay a high price to stand firm for Christ. Let's never grow tired of praying for them. As we pray, may many have profound encounters with Jesus amid deep suffering.

Pray for:

• The encouragement today of any believer detained or suffering in other ways for their faith in Christ;

• Comfort and provision for spouses, children and loved ones of prisoners;

• Real change as a result of efforts to shine a light on persecution around the world;

• Iran's leaders to encounter Jesus, repent, and cease to oppress the populace, including women and ethnic and religious minorities.

Thank you for praying.