As the world witnesses the fall of the brutal Assad regime that has ruled Syria for the past 53 years, Christians in the area brace for what happens next. Former President Bashar al-Assad, successor to his father, Hafez, has fled to Moscow with his wife and children. The plight of Christians in Syria remains a significant humanitarian and religious freedom concern, deeply impacted by more than a decade of conflict, political instability and the rise of extremist groups.
Before the Syrian Civil War, which began in 2011, Christians made up around 10% of the population. However, many had already fled the country due to violence, persecution and economic hardship. Reports estimate that hundreds of thousands of Christians have left Syria, reducing their numbers significantly.
Groups like ISIS and al-Nusra Front have specifically targeted Christians, imposing punitive taxes (jizya) and destroying many of their churches. Christians have faced kidnappings, forced conversions and killings. Entire Christian villages, particularly in areas like Homs, Aleppo and the Khabur River region, have been emptied due to fear of attacks or direct violent acts. Many ancient churches and monasteries, some dating back to early Christianity, have been damaged or destroyed during the war. Icons, manuscripts and other artifacts have been looted, erasing part of Syria’s Christian history.
Christians have been caught between various factions in the war, including the Syrian government, opposition groups and extremist militias. While some Christian leaders have aligned with the Assad government for protection, this has made others vulnerable to opposition retaliation. Many Christians leaders have remained in the city, providing spiritual guidance and practical support to their communities. Syriac Orthodox Metropolitan Bishop Mor Boutros Kassis has encouraged Christian residents to face the reality with awareness, courage and faith. Franciscan Father Bahjat Karakach, serving in Syria, said, “The Church knows no more than the people do.” When asked if Christians should leave or stay, he said, “No one can make it on behalf of another. We friars are staying and waiting to see how things unfold.”
Other Christian leaders look with hope that the plight of Christians may improve. Archbishop Boutros Marayati of the Armenian Catholic Church sought to reassure worshipers during a Mass, saying, “Do not fear, dear brothers. We have received assurances from all parties. Continue living normally, and everything will remain as before, even better.”
Bishop Elias Zaidan of the Maronite Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon – and chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on International Justice and Peace – issued a statement in which he called on the United States and the international community at large to support Syria. “[As it] starts a new chapter in its rich history, I urge the United States and the international community to keep the people of Syria in prayer and to closely monitor the situation so that all aid organizations are able to reach those in need.”
Cardinal Mario Zenari, Apostolic Nuncio to Damascus, said that rebel forces met with bishops in Aleppo and assured them “that they would respect the various religious denominations and Christians.”
Despite the many challenges faced by Christians in Syria, and the Middle East in general, those who stay are to be commended for their courage and faith. Syrian Christians have shown remarkable resilience these past many years of war. Communities in relatively safer areas, like Damascus and Latakia, continue to practice their faith and are willing to be part of the rebuilding of their country. Local and international organizations are working to preserve Christian heritage, provide humanitarian aid and encourage those who remain. The future of Christianity in Syria at this point remains uncertain, heavily dependent on the resolution of the broader Syrian conflict and efforts to ensure the safety and rights of religious minorities.
Let us pray for our brothers and sisters in Syria and the Middle East. May peace come to Syria with religious freedom for all!
Father Joseph D. Wallace is diocesan director of Ecumenical and Inter-religious Affairs and pastor of Christ the Redeemer Parish, Atco.
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