Now Is Iran’s Time – Bringing the Hope of the Gospel into Homes by Satellite
Iran is living in the midst of war, fear, and deep uncertainty. Hani Henein, GCMM's Director of the Arabic Ministry, explains why it is especially important to continue broadcasting Farsi-language programs right now.
— The news from Iran is filled with stories of war, loss, and outcomes difficult to predict. Beyond the headlines, our work brings us face to face with the people living through this reality: families trying to carry on with daily life, people who feel alone and long for safety, and those who are asking whether there is still reason to hope in the midst of so much uncertainty.
"That is why I believe this is Iran's time," Hani says, lifting his gaze toward the sky.
The mission of GCMM in the Middle East is not to resolve conflicts between nations, but our task is to keep open a channel through which an Iranian can hear the Gospel in his or her own language.
Bringing hope directly into homes
GCMM's Farsi-language evangelistic programs are broadcast regularly via satellite, bringing the message of the Gospel directly into a person's home. Even when connections to the outside world are uncertain, and access to Christian fellowship is limited, satellite broadcasts continue to offer a vital source of hope and encouragement.
For many Iranians, attending church is simply not possible. Some may find themselves completely alone in their faith, without a single Christian they can turn to for conversation or encouragement. In these circumstances, a television program can provide a first safe connection to the Christian faith.
The programs introduce viewers to Jesus and explore themes such as prayer, forgiveness, and hope, while also speaking to deeply personal struggles like fear, loneliness, identity, and the need for inner healing. Presented in Farsi and shaped with an understanding of Iranian culture and everyday realities, the programs seek to meet viewers where they are.
"I am sometimes asked what a single television program can possibly do in the midst of war," Hani says with passion. "Of course, television cannot end a war, nor can it replace the Church or the comfort of human connection. But it can cause someone to pause and listen. It can encourage a person to open the Bible, pray for the first time, or simply realize that, even in the midst of everything they are facing, God has not forgotten them."
Over the years, GCMM has seen the impact of these programs firsthand. People reach out for prayer, ask questions about faith, and share how they have found hope when life seemed to offer no way forward. Stories like these remind us of God's faithfulness and give us every reason to be grateful—not only for the fruit of this ministry, but also for the faithful prayers and generous support that make this work possible.
Working Together in Missions
A great deal of work goes into every program. Each one must be carefully planned, filmed, edited, and prepared for broadcast on satellite channels. This requires people who understand both the Farsi language and Iranian culture, as well as careful coordination of broadcast times and follow-up with viewers who reach out. All of this requires financial resources, and many of the associated costs are beyond our control.
"We may never know exactly who will watch a particular program or how it will touch their life, but we do know that this ministry would not be possible without the faithful support of those who stand with us," Hani says, appealing to GCMM's prayer partners and supporters. "Please remember the people of Iran in your prayers. Pray for peace and protection, and that those living with fear and uncertainty would encounter the love and hope of Jesus. And please pray for those who produce the programs and for the staff who respond personally to the people who reach out to us."
Dear prayer partner and faithful supporter of the ministry, thank you for keeping this ministry close to your heart. We are deeply grateful for your prayers and financial support for our Farsi-language satellite television ministry reaching people in Iran.
Over the years, we have had the privilege of witnessing God's miracles in remarkable ways. We have also learned that the impact of a gift is not measured by its size. Rather, it is the faithful, ongoing support of many people—like small streams flowing together—that makes this ministry possible and enables it to continue.
Through regular support, we can keep these programs on the air and bring the hope of the Gospel to people in places we cannot reach ourselves. As Hani Henein, Director of the Arabic Ministry, reminds us, now is Iran's time. This does not mean that other nations or needs are any less important. Rather, it is a call to recognize this particular moment and to stand alongside the people of Iran, reminding them that they are not forgotten. Together, through prayer and faithful support, we can help keep this vital channel of hope open.
Hani Henein
Director of GCMM's Arabic Ministry