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Write a letter or card to a prisoner

“Please tell people who send me these cards that they not only encouraged me, but they also saved my faith! I was under a lot of pressure, from the authorities as well as my own family. I was beginning to ask myself, ‘Is it worth it?’ And then, there were these cards, which renewed my faith and made me aware that I belong a loving and much bigger family of God.”

Amir, a former prisoner

But why would sending a card be useful or encouraging?

  • The simple act of sending a letter can bring strength, comfort and hope to Christians who are suffering for their faith. The greatest gift you can give a persecuted Christian is the knowledge that they're not alone.
  • In some cases, a prisoner's treatment and conditions are improved when the authorities realise that churches and Christians worldwide are aware of that person’s condition and are concerned for him/her.
  • It gives you an easy way to connect directly with people you’re praying for.
  • It is a simple, practical step towards reducing the negative impact of the injustice they are suffering from.

Letter-Writing Guidelines

HOW TO WRITE IT

  • Write in simple English and keep your letter brief as it is easier to translate for those recipients who do not speak English. Of course if you are able, write in the Persian language (Farsi).
  • Print clearly.
  • Choose who you would like to write a card or letter to. You may prefer to address your cards and letters simply to 'brother' or 'sister in Christ' and we will forward them to individuals who need encouragement and don't receive many cards.

SECURITY

  • Do not mention Article18 in your letters.
  • If writing a postcard, please send it in an envelope and do not write the Article18’s address on the postcard.
  • You may provide your name, but do not provide your full address.
  • Do not criticise Iran’s officialreligion, government, or judicial system as it may work against the believers you are sending it to
  • Do not send money or make proposals to help.

FORWARDING CARDS

  • We may be advised against sending the letters to the individual’s prison or home address, but we make sure they get to see and read them all.
  • Please note that any cards or pictures sent must be small, light and not too fragile for posting
  • Please post cards and letters to:
    • Article18
      Kemp House
      152-160 City Road
      London
      EC1V 2NX

If you write more than one letter, you do not need to send them in individual envelopes or send stamps. Instead, please put all your letters in one envelope.

Sample Letter

If you're not sure what to write, use our sample letter below as a guide for your own letters and cards of encouragement

Dear [recipient's name],

I heard about your situation and wanted to write to you and let you know that you are in my prayers. Although we have never met, we are united as brothers and sisters in Christ.

I cannot imagine what it must be like to have to endure your sufferings. But I know that the Lord is with you - even in the hardest times. I pray that you will know His presence and His peace everyday. Keep looking to Him and trusting in Him, because He is a faithful God.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1)

With love in Christ

[Your name]

[Your country - optional]

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