Underground Church Leaders Gather for Transformational Training

Equipping Iran’s Emerging Leaders for Lasting Impact

In a secure location in the Middle East, a group of Iranian believers recently gathered for an intensive leadership development retreat unlike anything most had ever experienced. For many, it was the first time meeting their spiritual family face-to-face, after years of online discipleship and mentoring through Transform Iran’s follow-up ministry.

Behind closed doors and away from government surveillance, participants were finally able to worship freely, share communion, and witness public baptisms. Every prayer, every tear, and every embrace carried profound meaning. Inside Iran, following Jesus can come at great personal cost, but here, for a few sacred days, they could breathe freely, be refueled, and receive fresh equipping to return to the frontlines of ministry with courage and conviction.

I had always dreamed of praying among believers, and here that dream became reality. On the second night, when my sister in Christ said, ‘Be free,’ my tears flowed, and I experienced the presence of the Holy Spirit.

This retreat was part of Transform Iran’s broader strategy to raise Spirit-led leaders who will disciple and mobilize others across the underground church. The purpose of the training was to equip participants for effective ministry, deepen their identity in Christ, foster unity, and provide practical and spiritual tools for faithful and courageous leadership. Through personalized mentoring, immersive teaching, and intentional fellowship, Transform Iran nurtures leaders who will multiply the gospel in some of the most challenging contexts in the world.

Focus on Personal Transformation and Healing

Leadership in the underground church begins with personal discipleship and inner renewal. These secret gatherings are designed to help believers grow in their identity in Christ and experience freedom from fear, shame, and the wounds of the past – equipping them to lead from wholeness.

For years I carried fears about the future and wrong decisions, but when I heard ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged,’ the walls of fear in my heart fell. I learned that my identity is not in the wounds of the past but in the new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Before this trip, I was afraid of losing my family. But here, through the prayers, worship, and teachings, that fear was lifted. I understood that God is with us, and even if I lose loved ones, we will live together again in His presence.

I deeply felt the presence of the Holy Spirit, and a warmth and peace that is hard to describe. He cleansed and healed me from within.

As God’s Spirit moved among them, burdens were lifted, identities restored, and courage rekindled. Many left the seminar determined to walk in the freedom and authority that comes from knowing who they are in Christ.

Focus on Vision, Mission and the Great Commission

Every training program is designed to move believers from personal growth to Kingdom impact. Transform Iran’s model equips leaders not only to grow spiritually, but to live missionally – evangelizing, discipling, and planting new churches, despite the constant threat of persecution.

The final lesson about the Great Commission gave me a fresh motivation. I decided that when I return to Iran, I will be more active in evangelism with prayer and the help of the Holy Spirit.

After the final lesson about the Great Commission, I became sure that I will use every opportunity to share the gospel. My heart’s desire is to serve Jesus Christ with all my life.

My brother in Christ shared a vision about me – that I would one day help people of my own age who are struggling with addictions or broken families. This gave me so much hope.

Each attendee was encouraged to identify specific people they could pray for and reach with the gospel. Many went home determined to witness to friends, classmates, and even family members who are searching for truth.

Focus on Teamwork, Unity and Leadership Growth

Transform Iran believes that true leadership is relational and collaborative. That’s why training sessions emphasize teamwork, reconciliation, and unity – key ingredients for the endurance of Iran’s growing underground movement.

I learned about my identity as a child of God and also about the importance of courage, discipline, vision, and love.

I especially loved learning about giving value to others, and sharing the gospel is serious and urgent. With the Holy Spirit’s help, I know this is possible.

This was my first conference, and though the journey was difficult, it was worth it. I want to share what I received here with my family and friends back home.

For many, this event was a turning point. Leaders who had once walked alone discovered they were part of a larger family, united in purpose, strengthened by love, and supported in prayer. Together, they returned to Iran ready to multiply what they had learned.

Focus on Freedom, Fellowship and Public Faith

One of the most powerful aspects of this event was the freedom to worship, pray, and baptize openly – something that cannot happen inside Iran. In a nation where Christian gatherings are monitored and public worship is forbidden, this experience was deeply liberating.

I’ve reached my dream of being with a spiritual family.

I was baptized in water, a moment I will never forget. This trip was one of the best experiences of my life, and now I return to Iran with a strong heart, ready to continue sharing the gospel.

I had always wanted to take communion in a church, and in this trip God gave me that gift.

These moments of freedom do more than refresh – they empower! Participants returned home spiritually strengthened and deeply connected to a movement that is bigger than themselves.

A Growing Network of Faithful Leaders

Through gatherings like this, Transform Iran continues to develop strong, Spirit-filled leaders who are transforming Iran from the inside out. Hundreds have been trained and discipled through these secure leadership programs. Each one represents a spark of light that carries the gospel into new corners of the nation.

This is how the movement grows: disciples making disciples, leaders raising leaders, the Church multiplying under the power of the Holy Spirit.

You Can Help Empower These Leaders!

Iran’s underground church is alive – it is flourishing and growing amidst severe oppression. But believers need continued support, discipleship, leadership training, and secure spaces to grow in faith and ministry.

Pray for divine courage, leading, wisdom and protection for them.
Partner with Transform Iran to further strengthen our leadership development and discipleship programs.

Together, we can raise a generation of faithful leaders who will transform Iran for Christ.