I’m sure all readers will welcome the news that Pastor Nadarkhani has been acquitted of apostasy charges. Although he was sentenced for three years on a charge of evangelising Muslims, he was released because he has already served this time while awaiting judgement. Here is a quote from Christian Solidarity Worldwide who have been campaigning tirelessly on Nadarkhani’s behalf:
CSW’s Chief Executive, Mervyn Thomas said, “CSW is delighted to learn of Pastor Nadarkhani’s release after a long incarceration. We commend the Iranian judiciary for this step, which is a triumph for justice and the rule of law. While we rejoice at this wonderful news, we do not forget hundreds of others who are harassed or unjustly detained on account of their faith, and CSW is committed to continue campaigning until all of Iran’s religious minorities are able to enjoy religious freedom as guaranteed under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Iran is party.”
Although it is terrible that anyone should have to fear punishment for ‘apostasy’, or be punished for evangelising – at least for Nadarkhani the ordeal seems to be over.
Hat Tip: Raquel Saraswati
