Iranian women bring inspiring testimony to Cape church

The genius of the U.S. Constitution starts with the First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof ..."

A driving reason for America's early settlers was that they wished to worship God freely. It's clear the Founders of this country were men of faith.

Today, there are individuals in other countries who do not enjoy this freedom to worship.

Two such women held captive for nine months in Iran will share their story this weekend at LaCroix Church in Cape Girardeau.

Maryam Rostampour and Marziyeh Amirizadeh were held captive for 259 days in Iran. The reason: They were Christians. According to their website captiveiniran.com, the women distributed New Testaments and started two secret house churches.

Their faith did not waver. The women were released, and this weekend they will share an amazing story.

A group at LaCroix Church who pray for persecuted Christians asked the women to come. You can read more in a story that appeared in the March 16 edition of the Southeast Missourian or online at semissourian.com.

"One hundred million people are suffering for the name of Jesus," said organizer Jill Chrusciel.

The women will speak to youth at 6:30 p.m. Friday at LaCroix Church and at the three weekend services at the church: 5:30 p.m. Saturday and 9:30 and 11 a.m. Sunday. A 5K challenge benefiting The Voice of the Martyrs will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday. Registration is at 8:30 a.m. Visit facebook.com/TheUnforgettable5K for more information about the race.

This looks to be an incredible opportunity to be inspired by two women who know what it means to be persecuted for their faith. We hope you consider attending.

We pray for all those around the world who are persecuted for their faith.