Iranian Christian Persecuted for Faith Believes Iran Could Become a Christian Nation

Marziyeh Amirizadeh, an Iranian Christian, believes Iran has the potential to become a Christian nation, stating that Iranians are "tired of Islam." Born in southern Iran and raised in Tehran, Amirizadeh recalls being forced into Islamic practices at school, including prayers and reciting anti-American slogans. Despite this, her father's influence of love and respect led her to seek truth beyond Islam.
At 18, Amirizadeh began her spiritual journey, eventually converting to Christianity after reading the Bible and attending a home church. She and her friend Maryam Rostampour secretly distributed 20,000 Bibles and started home churches, but their work was discovered. Both were arrested and sentenced to death for apostasy. After 259 days in Iran's Evin Prison, they were released due to international pressure, including intervention from Pope Benedict XVI.
Amirizadeh and Rostampour fled Iran, eventually settling in the U.S. Amirizadeh has since authored two books, sharing her experiences and faith. She remains hopeful about Iran's future, believing that the regime's actions have exposed the true face of Islam, leading many Iranians to seek Christianity.
Amirizadeh's story highlights the ongoing persecution of Christians in Iran and the resilience of those who seek religious freedom despite oppressive regimes.

Published: 7/20/2025