Saeed Abedini is continuing to endure hardship in an Iranian prison but a visit from his family provided some relief this week.

His family, including his mother, were allowed a physical visitation - meaning there were no barriers in place between Abedini and his relatives.

The visiting members included his mother and they had a "sweet time of prayer and fellowship", according to his wife Naghmeh Abedini, who remains in the US with their two children.

Abedini is an American citizen and was arrested in Iran in 2012 while working on an orphanage project.  He was sentenced to eight years in prison the following year on charges of undermining national security. 

He has reportedly suffered torture and beatings behind bars, and his family say he is in need of surgery because of the injuries he has sustained.  

Prayer vigils are being organised by the American Center for Law and Justice to mark the second anniversary of his imprisonment.  

Prayers will be said on 26 September for Abedini and the global persecuted church.  

Naghmeh Abedini said: "Saeed is doing better.  He has heard about the prayer vigil and is praying and expecting great things as we come together and pray." 

So far, churches from 12 countries, including the US and UK have signed up to be part of the vigil.  

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