BARZAN FIRST CONTACTED OUR Middle East Feba team in 1995. Originally from Iraq, Barzan had been listening to Feba’s programs for over 17 years. He asked questions about Christianity, and shared some of the difficulties he'd had living under Sadam's regime.
In 1997, Barzan left Iraq, taking his wife and two children and all the money they had: $500. At the border they were ordered to pay $400. With just $100 remaining, the family suffered, until they met some Christians who offered to help them.
In 1998 Barzan began attending a church where he and his wife became Christians. They were baptized and started serving exiled Iraqis in their new country. During this time, Barzan and his wife had a third child, but tragically he was killed in an accident at the age of 4. The family held on tight to the Lord during this difficult time.
Throughout the years Feba kept in touch with Barzan. He often sent messages such this one: "It’s always a blessing when I get an e-mail from you. Thank you for caring about me, and your great love. May God bless you."
This past spring we heard from Barzan again and were so surprised at his news. "I’m now with Jesus forever," Barzan wrote. “No need to worry about me. I studied theology and am now a pastor to my own people. Thanks for your prayers. I now know this is where the Lord wants me to serve Him.” |
