Iran is a predominantly Muslim country, with Shia Islam being the majority religion. However, other religions such as Christianity, Judaism, and Zoroastrianism are also present in the country. In this article, we will focus on Christianity and answer the question "What is the number of churches in Iran?".
Historical background of Christianity in Iran
Christianity has a long history in Iran, dating back to the 1st century AD. According to tradition, one of the Magi who visited Jesus at his birth was from Persia (modern-day Iran). The Armenian Apostolic Church, one of the oldest Christian denominations, has been present in Iran since the early 4th century. In the 17th century, a group of Christian missionaries arrived in Iran and established the first Protestant church. However, Christianity has always been a minority religion in Iran and has faced periods of persecution throughout history.
Current religious landscape in Iran
As of 2021, Islam is the dominant religion in Iran, with Shia Muslims making up about 90% of the population. Other religious minorities, including Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians, and Baha’is, make up less than 10% of the population combined.
Number of Christians in Iran
According to the Iranian government, there are around 117,000 Christians in the country, although some estimates put the number higher, at around 300,000. Christians in Iran come from a variety of ethnic backgrounds, including Armenian, Assyrian, and Kurdish.
Breakdown of Christian denominations in Iran
The majority of Christians in Iran belong to the Armenian Apostolic Church, which has been present in the country for centuries. Other Christian denominations that are represented include Assyrian Church of the East, Chaldean Catholic Church, Anglican Church, and various Protestant denominations.
How churches operate in Iran
Christian churches in Iran operate in a variety of ways, depending on the denomination and whether they are registered or unregistered. Some churches hold services in private homes, while others have official buildings. Services are typically conducted in the language of the church’s ethnic community, such as Armenian, Assyrian, or Kurdish.
Legal status of churches in Iran
In order to operate legally in Iran, churches must be registered with the government. However, the process of registration can be difficult and time-consuming, and many churches choose to operate without official recognition. Unregistered churches are at risk of being shut down by the government, and their members can face persecution.
Restrictions on church activities in Iran
The Iranian government places restrictions on the activities of churches, particularly those that are not registered. For example, unregistered churches are not allowed to advertise their services or hold public gatherings. Christians in Iran are also not allowed to evangelize or proselytize, and those who convert from Islam to Christianity can face severe punishment, including imprisonment and even death.
Number of registered churches in Iran
As of 2021, there are around 200 registered Christian churches in Iran, according to the Iranian government. These churches are mainly located in major cities such as Tehran, Isfahan, and Tabriz.
Number of unregistered churches in Iran
It is difficult to estimate the exact number of unregistered churches in Iran, but some reports suggest that there may be hundreds or even thousands operating throughout the country.
Challenges facing Iranian Christians
Iranian Christians face a number of challenges, including persecution, discrimination, and restrictions on their religious freedoms. They are often viewed with suspicion by the government and society at large, and can face harassment, imprisonment, and other forms of punishment for practicing their faith.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the number of churches in Iran is relatively small compared to the country’s overall population, with around 200 registered churches and an unknown number of unregistered ones. Iranian Christians face a number of challenges in practicing their faith, but continue to do so despite the risks. As Iran’s religious landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen what the future holds for the country’s Christian community.
