In an era where human rights are championed as universal and fundamental, we must ask ourselves: how far have we truly come in overcoming religious intolerance and respecting diversity?
What does it mean for a nation to enforce a dominant faith and what happens to those who dare to differ? For Christians in the Middle East, these questions cut to the core of their daily reality and reveal stark contrasts between freedom and oppression.
Christianity is the most widely practised religion in the world and it transcends geographical, cultural, and political boundaries. From its humble beginnings in the Middle East, this faith has spread to every corner of the globe, inspiring and giving hope to billions of people.
Naturally, the connection to the birthplace of Christianity is not only spiritual but also deeply personal for many who believe. The Middle East should then ideally be a haven for Christians to celebrate their faith, but the reality is often far from this ideal.
As we approach Christmas, a time of hope and renewal, it is worth reflecting on the contrasting experiences of Christians in the Middle East. On a more specific level, we need to examine the stark difference between life in Israel, the world’s only Jewish state, and in Muslim-majority countries, as these are the religions currently in charge of that side of the world.
The Middle East is an inherently religious region where faith shapes identities, laws, and daily life.
Israel was founded as a homeland for the Jewish people and it stands out as a beacon of religious freedom. Christians in the country form a vibrant and growing community despite being a minority. They worship openly, build churches, and celebrate their festivals with full recognition.
Sacred sites such as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem and the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth are also accessible, allowing local Christians and pilgrims to connect deeply with their faith.
Israel’s democratic principles ensure that Christians can freely practise their beliefs, setting the country aside to the realities faced by Christians in many neighbouring countries.
In Saudi Arabia, for example, public expressions of Christianity are prohibited and the possession of religious symbols can result in severe punishment. On the other hand, apostasy laws in countries like Iran and Yemen impose the death penalty on those who convert from Islam to Christianity.
Conflict and persecution
Even in nations with historically rich Christian communities like Iraq and Syria, years of conflict and persecution have decimated these populations. The Islamic State’s reign of terror left churches desecrated and countless Christians displaced.
It is sobering to note that the very lands where Christianity was born now rank among the most dangerous places for its followers.
The loss of Christian lives in these regions is a tragedy that cannot be ignored. People like Father Jacques Hamel, who was murdered in France by extremists, remind us of the global challenges Christians face.
Closer to the Middle East, a heartbreaking example is the 2010 attack on Our Lady of Salvation Church in Baghdad where over 50 worshippers were killed during mass. These individuals whose only ‘crime’ was practising their faith serve as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by Christians worldwide.
As we celebrate Christmas, it is imperative to honour their memory and reflect on the resilience of those who continue to uphold their beliefs despite immense challenges.
Israel’s relative security and freedom for Christians stand in sharp relief against this backdrop. The shared theological roots of Judaism and Christianity may be a factor in fostering an environment of mutual respect. Christians in Israel are free to celebrate Christmas with joy and openness, a luxury denied to many in the region.
In Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, and Nazareth where He grew up, Christmas is marked by vibrant celebrations that attract local and international worshippers. This freedom to embrace their faith fully, especially in the Middle East, is a testament to Israel’s pluralistic approach.
In Muslim-majority countries the reality is far different.
Open Doors, an organisation advocating for persecuted Christians, consistently ranks nations like Pakistan, Egypt, and Syria among the most difficult places for Christians to live. Christmas services in these countries often take place under tight security with worshippers acutely aware of the risks.
In Egypt, for instance, the Palm Sunday bombings in 2017 claimed the lives of over 40 Christians. Despite such threats, believers continue to gather to honour the birth of Christ, embodying the resilience and tenacity central to Christian values.
This contrast calls for reflection, particularly during the festive season. Christmas is not just a time of celebration; it is an opportunity to recommit to the values of faith, hope, and love.
For Christians in South Africa where practising Christianity is woven seamlessly into everyday life it may be easy for us to forget the challenges faced by brethren elsewhere. Attending church freely, displaying nativity scenes without fear, and singing the Gospel without hesitation are privileges that are unfortunately not shared universally because there are still places in the world where even assembling for worship is fraught with danger.
Israel’s role as a sanctuary for Christians in the Middle East is especially significant given the broader regional context. It is obviously not without challenges as political tensions particularly in areas like East Jerusalem complicate the lives of Christians and other minorities.
Rare
However, the legal and institutional frameworks in place ensure that Christians can practise their faith openly and without shame. This protection is rare in a region where apostasy laws, societal hostility, and legal restrictions on church construction are the norm, it therefore deserves recognition and respect.
The struggles faced by Christians in Muslim-majority countries highlight the urgent need for advocacy and dialogue. While international organisations and some governments work to address these issues, the responsibility also falls on individuals.
I am calling all Christians to stand in solidarity with those who cannot freely celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. This solidarity can take many forms: prayer, raising awareness, supporting organisations that promote religious freedom, or simply extending compassion to those who suffer.
As the Christmas season approaches, let us draw inspiration from the resilience of persecuted Christians and the freedoms enjoyed in places like Israel. These contrasting realities remind us of the importance of protecting religious liberties and embracing pluralism.
May this festive season inspire reflection on our shared humanity and a recommitment to building a world where everyone can worship freely and live with dignity.
In this time of joy and reflection, let us honour the memory of those who have suffered for their faith, stand with those who persevere, and celebrate the hope that Christmas brings.
As we gather with our loved ones, may we also remember brothers and sisters for whom this season is a reminder of both the light of Christ and the cost of following Him. May their stories inspire us to live out our faith with courage, compassion, and conviction.
The views of the writer are not necessarily the views of the Daily Friend or the IRR.
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