Persecuted at Easter: Banned Processions in Nicaragua, Harassed Pilgrims in India & Imprisoned Pastors in Iran - Faith & Freedom News

As Christians worldwide celebrate Holy Week, believers in several countries face unprecedented restrictions and violence. From Nicaragua’s banned public Easter processions, to Indian pilgrims harassed by Hindu nationalist militants, and an Iranian pastor’s health crisis behind bars, these stories highlight the growing threats to religious freedom. Understanding these challenges—and responding with prayer, advocacy, and support—is crucial for upholding the right to worship without fear.

Nicaragua: Public Easter Celebrations Banned

Christians across Nicaragua are observing Holy Week under the heavy presence of police and paramilitary forces after the Sandinista government outlawed public religious festivities for the second consecutive year. Processions, traditionally central to Latin American Easter, have been replaced in some municipalities by state‑run events.

Escalating Harassment: Since the ban, hundreds of pastors and church leaders have been arrested or forced into exile. Reacting to the crackdown, exiled political figure Félix Maradiaga warned that Nicaragua’s model “mirrors China,” with government‑controlled churches spreading propaganda under the guise of worship.
Surveillance State: Reports indicate that around 14,000 security agents have been deployed to monitor congregations and clamp down on home gatherings. Some pastors must submit sermons for police approval, while churchgoers fear being “marked” if they attend services.
Call to Prayer: Lift up Nicaraguan believers this Easter—pray that the message of Christ’s death and resurrection pierces through restrictions, bringing hope and courage to a persecuted church.

India: Christian Pilgrims Harassed by Hindu Nationalists

On March 31, two buses carrying Christian pilgrims on a Lenten tour in Madhya Pradesh were intercepted by members of the Bajrang Dal, a Hindu nationalist group. The pilgrims were taken to police stations twice, and several church leaders were physically and verbally assaulted when they intervened.

False Conversion Claims: Bajrang Dal activists accused the pilgrims of forcibly converting tribal Hindus—despite no evidence—using India’s anti‑conversion stigma to justify their attacks. Identity cards were demanded as “proof” of faith, a requirement not supported by law.
Official Response: Local police ultimately registered complaints against the attackers when no illicit conversion activity was found, but the incident underscores how Christians are vulnerable to false charges and mob violence.
Action Points: Pray for healing and justice for those harmed. Advocate for stronger legal protections and educate communities about religious freedom to prevent future harassment.

Iran: Imprisoned Pastor Suffers Stroke

Pastor Nasser Navard Gol‑Tapeh, a Christian convert serving a renewed prison term since February 6, suffered a stroke on March 17 after a hunger strike protesting his detention without charge or legal representation. Although briefly hospitalized and given basic treatment, he was returned to solitary confinement despite medical advice for physiotherapy.

Ongoing Legal Abuses: Pastor Nasser joined other detained believers, including Pastor Joseph Shahbazian and two women, in facing harsh conditions in Evin Prison. Their families fear for their health and safety amid reports of inadequate medical care.
Health and Hope: At 63, Pastor Nasser’s left-side paralysis remains untreated. His situation highlights Iran’s use of imprisonment and medical neglect to pressure Christian dissenters.
Support Through Prayer: Intercede for Pastor Nasser’s full recovery and for prison authorities to honor medical recommendations. Pray also for the safe release and well‑being of all Christians imprisoned for their faith.

Stand with Persecuted Christians This Easter

This Holy Week, as we reflect on sacrifice and resurrection, let us remember those who cannot openly celebrate Christ’s victory over death. You can:

Pray earnestly for believers in Nicaragua, India, Iran, and beyond.
Share verified reports and personal stories to raise global awareness.
Support organizations advocating for religious freedom and offering aid to persecuted communities.
Advocate with policymakers to enact and enforce protections for minority faiths.

Despite bans, violence, and imprisonment, the hope of Easter shines brightest in the darkest trials. May the courageous faith of our persecuted brothers and sisters inspire us to action and deepen our gratitude for the freedom to worship.