Pia van Belen gives Iranian Christian women a voice: ‘Their faith shines brightly in the darkness’: Cvandaag

This is an abbreviated version of the full Dutch article (link below), written by Sjoukje Dijkstra.

Pia van Belen (45), researcher for Transform Iran, describes Iranian Christian women she met last summer in Turkey who had fled persecution in Iran. “They have given up everything for their faith, yet they testify of the hope within them,” Pia says. “Their faith shines brightly in the darkness, giving them courage and resilience in the face of constant threats and violence.”

An unexpected calling

For years, Pia has been helping refugees in the Netherlands, working in asylum centers and leading Bible studies. Yet, she never expected her work to bring her to Turkey. “God placed a love for Muslims in my heart,” she explains. “He led me to study Missionary Work and learn Farsi. I didn’t know the purpose, but I trusted He would guide me.”

As Pia neared the end of her studies, she struggled to find an internship. “I prayed desperately, asking God for guidance.” Eventually, an Iranian woman working for Transform Iran contacted her, leading to a life-changing internship. Pia traveled to Turkey, where she interviewed Iranian refugee women about their lives of fear and uncertainty, discovering a common theme: the insecurity they face for themselves and their children.

“Her son was beaten at school and broke his legs.”

Pia met women like Maryan (a pseudonym), who had been in Turkey for eight years. “Her house was broken into, her son beaten at school, and teachers denied him basic rights,” Pia shares. “She herself was assaulted but couldn’t report it for fear of deportation.” Despite these horrors, Maryan remained resilient, holding on to her faith and dreaming of a safe space for women like her.

Faith amidst fear

Pia’s research revealed the intense struggles of Iranian Christian women. “They face constant insecurity, limited access to healthcare, and discrimination. Yet, they speak of their faith, hope, and dreams that keep them going. They show what it means to persevere in faith despite unimaginable challenges.”

Pia reflects:

These women remind me of the sacrifices faith requires. Here in the Netherlands, we have the freedom to practice our faith, but we don’t often consider what following Christ truly costs.

The numbers behind the stories

Pia’s research combines personal stories with statistics:

• Discrimination and insecurity: Facing deportation and exclusion for their faith and ethnicity.
  
• Economic exploitation: Working under poor conditions without legal protection.
  
• Limited access to services: Struggling to access healthcare, housing, and education.
  
• Violence and abuse: Widespread sexual violence and bullying.
  
• Insecurity for children: Students face verbal and physical violence at school.

Pia emphasizes the vulnerability of children:

Many are afraid to go to school, with 60% reporting fear and 76% noticing behavioral changes. These children carry a heavy burden.

Help that goes beyond prayer

While Pia believes prayer is vital, she stresses the need for practical support. “Structural help is essential. Funds for medical care, legal aid, and safe housing can make a difference. Small donations can prevent deportation and provide safety.” She calls on readers to act with love and care, highlighting the difference targeted support can make in the lives of these women and children.

Read more about our work with refugees and the persecuted church

“Sometimes doubt overwhelms me.”

Despite the challenges, Pia has seen hope. “These women show that faith isn’t dependent on circumstances. They persevere, keep singing, and praying. Their faith is a light in the darkness.”

Pia concludes, “I never doubt God Himself. He is with these women, suffering with them and giving them strength. This is a powerful lesson for us all.”

Link to the full Dutch article

Header image: Pia van Belen during a visit to Turkey.

Originally published on: Cvandaag