Afsaneh could barely remember what it felt like to laugh.  She had been in unspoken mourning for 13 years, following the loss of a child. During that time, not a single day of true joy had penetrated her grief-stricken soul. Though she had chosen to follow Christ, depression still engulfed her life. Then she was invited to an Elam women’s conference in the Iran region.  She agreed to come, expecting to benefit from the company of fellow Christian ladies, but not really expecting God to move in her heart. But God had business to do with Afsaneh. One night at the conference, the ladies gathered together for a ‘Daughters of the King’ party.  As the ladies began to celebrate who they are in Christ, Afsaneh felt the shroud of mourning beginning to be lifted from her shoulders. She danced for the first time in years. The next day, the ladies had a teaching session on the emotions, followed by a time of ministry. During this time, Afsaneh was overwhelmed by the presence of the Holy Spirit and found herself weeping and praying on the floor. After this experience, she joyfully told the conference pastors, “It is a miracle: the Lord has set me free from my mourning.” Over 60 Iranian women attended this conference and there were many stories like Afsaneh’s ­– women being released from the shackles in their lives, into freedom. Praise God that Elam’s women’s team is able to host these conferences, and for the support and prayer which makes this vital ministry possible. Pray for Afsaneh to continue living the joy of the Lord; ongoing healing of her heart Lessons from the conference to be written deeply on their hearts Hearts prepared in advance for further conferences during 2014