Vigils remember Boise pastor jailed in Iran

MERIDIAN, Idaho – More than 100 people gathered for a vigil at the Meridian City Hall Amphitheater to pray for the safe return of a Boise pastor jailed in Iran for preaching Christianity.

The Meridian vigil was one of hundreds held around the world on Friday for Saeed Abedini, the Press-Tribune reported.

Abedini has strong ties to the community, Meridian Mayor Tammy de Weerd said. The father of his wife owns a business in Meridian.

“I am so honored to be here tonight for this event. This is important,” de Weerd said. “… It is my honor to know this family.”

Abedini has been held in Iran for two years.

Clint Henry of Central Valley Baptist Church said the vigils were important for reminding people of Abedini’s imprisonment. An Iranian judge sentenced the Boise native to eight years in prison in 2013.

“The most important thing is to raise awareness,” Henry said. “I hope the community will remember him every day.”