Finding Refuge in Him

The Mandaean people are among thousands of uprooted families who have fled to Western Europe in search of refuge from war, economy, and religious persecution in their home countries. The Mandaean people are a minority religious sect known as the “people who follow John the Baptist”. As many as 70,000 Mandaeans live in Iran, Iraq, and Syria.

Mandaeans recognize Jesus as only one of many prophets. They are not followers of Islam and are often targeted and persecuted in their countries.  Mandaeans believe a person can earn salvation through a combination of knowledge (gnosis) and rituals - like baptism. Many are goldsmiths in their home countries and their traditional clothing is usually white.

Naveed and his wife Zahra are cultural Mandaeans from Iran. Naveed and Zahra met Jesus through contact with believers in Iran. Knowing that, as Christians, there was no future in Iran for them or their children, they escaped through Turkey and made their way to Western Europe where they now live with their two children in a tiny refugee camp in a village community.

Naveed and Zahra were baptized soon after arriving in Europe. Even though their activities are limited due to living in the refugee camp and COVID-19 restrictions, they are growing in their faith and are faithful to attend a weekly Bible study as permitted.

Naveed was determined that he wanted to get his unmistakable tattoo in Turkey after he fled his homeland. If he is denied asylum and returned to Iran, this tattoo will almost certainly mean the loss of his arm or his life. His tattoo is a bold statement and a permanent reminder of Jesus, the only One Who brings true salvation to all who seek refuge in Him.

Pray for Naveed and Zahra to grow in their faith and bring others to the knowledge of the Truth that is found only in Jesus Christ.