Large Crowd Pray For Imprisoned American Pastor In Iran

COCHRAN, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Ministers joined residents in praying for the release of an American Pastor imprisoned in Iran.

A prayer vigil for Pastor Saeed Abedini was held on the Bleckley County Courthouse steps, Thursday.

Simultaneous prayers went forth for the pastor’s release from an Iranian Prison across the country. Abedini is being held in Evin Prison in Tehran, Iran.

His supporters say the American Pastor was wrongfully jailed while visiting his family in Iran.

Abedini is charged with crimes against the national security of Iran.

A large crowd gathered at noon, on the Bleckley Courthouse steps. It was on the first anniversary of his arrest. They came to pray for the Boise, Idaho pastor’s release from prison.

“He was given permission to start an orphanage there and when he went there to do it, he was arrested by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards and [he] has been tortured,” said the Secretary of the Cochran- Bleckley Ministerial Alliance, Jerri Tuck.

The prayer vigil began with a recording of the pastor’s testimony. It continued with prayers for persecuted Christians all over the world and their families. They also prayed for spiritual awakening in Iran.

The Senior Pastor of Be A Doer Church, William Basby said everyone came as members of the body of Christ, to show their support for one man.

“We’re here to pray with our brothers and sisters in Christ united for the same common goal hoping that a miracle will happen,” said Basby.

Abedinin converted to Christianity 13 years ago and started house churches in Iran.

“Well, just like in the Bible when they prayed for Peter to be released from prison that’s what we’re doing,” said Tuck.

The ministers told believers to ask for Abedini’s release as if it was already done.

“We believe the Lord can perform miracles and he’ll be freed and come home safe and we’ll give God glory and honor for it,” said the Senior Pastor of Limestone Baptist Church.

The Cochran Ministerial Alliance said they will continue praying for Pastor Saeed Abedini’s release until he is freed.