Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani still alive

Rumours circulating that Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani has been executed are being refuted by Christian Solidarity Worldwide.

There were fears the Iranian pastor had been hanged after images surfaced online in the last week.  

CSW said the man in the images was not Pastor Nadarkhani and that the ministry's sources have confirmed he is still alive.

Pastor Nadarkhani was freed on 7 January after spending nearly three years in prison for apostasy.   He was acquitted last September to the relief of Christians worldwide who had been praying for him.

CSW's Chief Executive Mervyn Thomas said, "While we are relieved to report that Pastor Nadarkhani is alive, we urge caution in circulating rumours which must be deeply distressing for his family, his congregation and for many around the world who continue to pray for him.

"Given their possible ramifications, it is vital that reports of such a serious nature are stringently verified before dissemination."

News
Easter Sunday and the hope of resurrection
Easter Sunday and the hope of resurrection

The hope of the resurrection is especially precious in a world filled with grief, violence, uncertainty, and pain.

Activists warn Syriacs being erased in Syria
Activists warn Syriacs being erased in Syria

The Syriacs are mostly Christian.

New Iraq report urges stronger action to protect Christians and other religious minorities
New Iraq report urges stronger action to protect Christians and other religious minorities

Jim Shannon MP said the report records both “the progress observed” and “the ongoing challenges” that remain for religious minorities seeking to live in safety and freedom in Iraq.

Parliamentary group raises concern about forced marriage of Christian girl in Pakistan
Parliamentary group raises concern about forced marriage of Christian girl in Pakistan

The girl’s father claims that she was underage at the time and was coerced into conversion.