04/20/2019 Jordan (International Christian Concern) – Jordan’s King Abdullah II recently received the Syriac Patriarch of Antioch, where he reaffirmed his country’s commitment to safeguarding ecclesiastical properties. Jordan is officially an Islamic country, and the monarchy claims to be direct descendants of the prophet Mohammed. However, the king has a reputation as a protector of religious freedom. From to time, he will reassert his role in safeguarding the Islamic and Christian holy places in Jerusalem.
This past fall, King Abdullah received the 2018 Templeton Prize for achieving interfaith harmony and protecting religious freedom. Jordan is considered one of the more tolerant countries for Christians living in the Middle East, and ranks number 31 on Open Doors Watch List.
Generally, many Jordanian Christians report that their presence is welcomed and greatly appreciated at a senior level. They do, however, report some challenges on a local level. Most of these challenges are discriminatory in nature. Converts to Christianity often face the greatest difficulties, especially in legal matters involving relatives who are still Muslim.
For interviews with Claire Evans, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: press@persecution.org.
