Despite growing hardship and uncertainty across Iran, believers continue to stand firm in their faith. Amidst the nation’s humanitarian crisis, Transform Iran ministry teams are quietly traveling between house churches, encouraging Christians, strengthening leaders, praying with families and distributing practical aid to those in need.

One recent ministry journey offered a powerful glimpse into both the struggles facing believers today and the extraordinary courage with which Iran’s underground church continues to follow Christ.

All names have been changed.

Strengthening Iran’s House Churches

The church in Iran continues to grow even in the harshest climates.

Despite the very difficult circumstances facing Iranians today, ministry and care for believers continue. The church is strong and as courageous as ever!

Elnaz, a senior pastor in Iran, has been visiting several house churches across her region, offering pastoral care, comfort, prayer and even practical aid.

One of her ministry trips involved ministry to Sanas and Iman, who lead another house church. They shared personal stories of loss, but also of hope and faith in the power of Christ to overcome even the darkest schemes. Elnaz spent time ministering to them and strengthening them in their faith.

Faith in the Midst of Fear and Uncertainty

Elnaz then continued her journey to visit sister Soraya in the north of the country. It transpired that Soraya’s husband had lost his livelihood due to an attack on the company where he was employed and the whole business had been destroyed. They faced a daily battle to maintain their peace despite uncertainty over their economic situation.

Another visit took Elnaz to the town where brother Ali was leading a house church. Ali’s cousin had has suffered a leg injury in the protests and the family were trying their best to care for him without risking exposure in hospitals. They spoke of their daily prayer times together and their resolve to keep their eyes on Jesus no matter what happened around them.

In all these circumstances, the same spirit remains visible among the believers: despite great risk, they take every opportunity to strengthen one another and remain attentive to one another’s needs.

There is also a commitment to maintain personal connections despite the aggressive efforts of the government to intimidate and isolate the believers.

Rooted in the Word of God

Having prayed for and ministered to house churches in multiple locations, Elnaz is convinced that the church in Iran is as strong as ever.

There is physical struggle, yes. And a constant battle against the temptation to give in to worry or fear, yes. But the overwhelming impression Elnaz had was a rooting in the Word, a deep love for Christ and His Church, and a commitment to keep their eyes on the victory that Christ has already won on the cross.

Practical Aid Bringing Hope to Families

During these visits and through the sacrificial giving of fellow believers, Elnaz was able to distribute food packages among several needy families and believers.

Each time she shared a food package, the response was deeply emotional. Many were moved to tears as they expressed their gratitude.

This was not merely (much needed!) practical support, but a tangible sign of the love of God, a reminder of His faithfulness, and evidence that the family of faith had not forgotten them in their hardship.

New Believers Continue Coming to Christ

During one of the visits to deliver aid, Elnaz met a family in which everyone except the husband had already come to faith in Christ.

During this visit, they shared the gospel again with him and he prayed the prayer of salvation and gave his heart to the Lord.

This brought brought deep thanksgiving and renewed joy in the midst of all the hardships and once again showed that even in the heart of crisis, God is still touching lives and adding new believers to His people.

Please continue praying for believers across Iran as they courageously strengthen one another, care for those in need and continue sharing the hope of Christ despite growing hardship.