The Christian presence in the Holy Lands traces its roots to the earliest days of Christianity. These small, diverse communities have historically contributed to the vibrant social fabric of their societies in the fields of science, medicine, and philosophy. Their fraternity with the diversity of Churches and other religious groups helps to foster greater interreligious dialogue, unity, and peace in the Middle East.

In the midst of the turbulence in the Middle East, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops expresses solidarity with Christians and all those who suffer from the conflict and persecution in the region.  The Church stands at the service of all people in the Middle East, both Christians and Muslims.

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Christian leaders pray in front of the Israeli separation wall in Bethlehem, West Bank, in 2010. CNS photo/Debbie Hill

    ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS, LETTERS, AND RESOURCES

    Video:  Religious Freedom and Christians in the Middle East

    Letter to Senators Corker and Cardin in Support of the Iraq and Syria Genocide Emergency Relief and Accountability Act
    Bishop Oscar Cantú, June 9, 2017

    USCCB President Offers Prayers for Victims in Latest Attack on Coptic Christians
    May 26, 2017

    Encounter in Egypt: Trip Highlights One of Pope's Key Teachings
    Catholic News Service, May 4, 2017

    U.S. Bishops Conference Responds to Explosions at Two Coptic Churches
    April 9, 2017

    Statement expressing solidarity with Christians and all those who suffer in the Middle East.
    February 10, 2017

    Letter to Representatives Smith and Eshoo Commending the Introduction of Iraq and Syria Genocide Emergency Relief and Accountability Act of 2017
    Bishop Oscar Cantú and Bishop Joe S. Vásquez, January 30, 2017

    Middle East Religious Freedom Fact Sheet

    Syrian Refugee Crisis

    Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in the Middle East

    Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA)
     

    DAY OF PRAYER FOR PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS

    Join USCCB, the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Relief Services, Aid to the Church in Need, and CNEWA on November 26th, the Solemnity of Christ the King, for a Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians.Solidarity in Suffering 470 wide

    Outside Resources