Christian communities grow slowly as share of population falls in Middle East, North Africa
Analysts say the pattern is driven by a mix of factors: outward migration, lower birth rates, and increasingly, disaffiliation or conversion.
Christian World
A look at Israel's winter wonderland in the Galilee, where Christmas comes to life
‘Every year they burn trees’: Jenin church firebombing renews scrutiny of Palestinian Authority
In first Christmas sermon, Pope Leo decries conditions for Palestinians in Gaza
Christians in Israel: Nazareth tops Israel’s Christian cities as Christmas arrives
Israel's 184,200 Christians mark Christmas as CBS data reveals a community with remarkable education rates and deep roots across Nazareth, Haifa, and Jerusalem.
Israeli authorities prevented PA VP from attending Christmas Eve mass in Bethlehem - report
Israeli authorities prevent PA Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh from attending Bethlehem's Christmas Eve mass, the Palestinian Authority-run WAFA claimed, as celebrations resume after two years.
Pope Leo XIV challenges Illinois governor over end-of-life legislation
The Illinois bill, which takes effect next September, gives terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less the option to request a medical prescription to end their lives.
Florida bishops urge Trump to halt immigration enforcement for Christmas holidays
"Such a pause would show a decent regard for the humanity of these families. Now is not the time to be callous toward the suffering caused by immigration enforcement," the bishops wrote.
Lutheran Christian leaders praised Hamas violence against Israel, investigation finds
An investigation alleges that senior Christian figures framed the October 7 Hamas attack as justified, fueling criticism over antisemitism and damage to Jewish-Christian relations.
Christmas tree and Nativity grotto at Jenin church destroyed in arson attack
Father Jubran said the attack “has no connection whatsoever to our authentic Palestinian and Christian culture, which is founded on love, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.”
Mike Huckabee assures he stands by Israel even as MAGA critics question US support
Huckabee’s stance has drawn criticism from figures including Tucker Carlson, Steve Bannon, and Marjorie Taylor Greene who have questioned whether US support for Israel serves national interests.
Christmas returns to Nazareth, marking a gradual revival of the city's Christian tourism
After two unusually quiet holiday seasons, Christmas has returned to the Galilean city, drawing visitors back into its streets and offering a modest lift to local tourism.
Israel's Herzog, Pope Leo discuss rise in worldwide antisemitism ahead of Christmas
The pope expressed his pride in Israel’s diverse and thriving Christian communities, who will gather at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem for an annual festive meeting in the coming weeks.
Pope Leo decries leaders who invoke religion for violence and nationalism
"It has become increasingly common to drag the language of faith into political battles, to bless nationalism, and to justify violence and armed struggle in the name of religion," said the pope.
