Rias’ story is one of great courage in the face of severe religious persecution.
Originally a Muslim, Rias converted to Christianity in 2008. “I realised that Jesus Christ had died to free me from sin, and I became a Christian,” he said.
His family joined the local church in Tehran. Sadly, their joy was soon overshadowed by immense persecution.
In February 2010, Rias’ freedom was taken away from him. Iranian Intelligence agents raided his home after discovering his family’s involvement with Christian gatherings.
They confiscated his computer, Christian books, and satellite receiver. Sive officers, arriving in three or four cars, entered his home to raid his belongings and arrest him.
Rias was taken to an Iranian Intelligence office, where he endured physical and psychological torture during night-long interrogations. The severe threats and mental anguish left lasting scars.
“I still have scars on my leg from that time, and I lost 35% of my hearing.”
Charged with ‘‘propaganda against the state,’ Rias faced a harsh judicial system determined to punish his conversion. After two harrowing months, he was released on bail, but at a high cost. Rias had to submit the family property title deeds to the authorities, which was a significant personal and financial burden.
Fearing for their safety, Rias and his family fled to Turkey. However, they faced increased hostility as Christian converts from Islam.
“I never felt safe in Turkey,” Rias reported. In Turkey, Rias’ life was full of uncertainty and fear. “Even the community refuses to accept us as Christian converts, and we could not live our lives in secret without eventually being found out.” The constant danger and lack of acceptance made daily life a struggle.
Despite the immense challenges, Rias’ faith remains strong. His journey shows the great need for protection and support for religious minorities worldwide. Philoi was able to support his family, and he now lives in Australia with his wife and two boys. Here, he enjoys the freedom to express his faith and desires to be a leader within his community, spreading the good news of Jesus. Rias’ story reminds us of the importance of standing in solidarity with those who face persecution for their beliefs. As a global community, we must advocate for the rights and safety of individuals like Rahman, ensuring that no one has to live in fear because of their faith.
Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.
– Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
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