Iran curbs Christian church services in native language

February 24, 2012

The government of Iran has cracked down on Christian churches that hold worship services in the Persian language.

Government officials ordered two Protestant churches to stop conducting the Persian-language services on Friday. The services are allowed on Sunday, but most Iranians work on Sunday, whereas Friday, the Muslim sabbath, is a day of rest.

Authorities in Iran are seeking to heighten the perception that the Christian faith is a foreign interest. The ban on use of Iran's national language furthers both goals. The ban also makes it more difficult for interested Iranians to learn more about the faith.

 

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Further information:

• New restrictions on Christian worship in the Persian language (Fides)