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On the Run with Persecuted Christians in the Middle East

Anton Foster

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Published in They Say We Are Infidels: On The Run With Persecuted Christians In The Middle East

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In the heart of the Middle East, where ancient civilizations thrived and the birthplace of three major religions, lies a hidden tragedy unfolding. Amidst the turmoil and conflict that have plagued the region, the Christian minority faces relentless persecution, forcing them to flee their homes and seek refuge in the shadows.

A Group Of Persecuted Christians Huddled Together In A Dark Room, Their Faces Etched With Fear And Uncertainty. They Say We Are Infidels: On The Run With Persecuted Christians In The Middle East

They Say We Are Infidels: On the run with persecuted Christians in the Middle East

by Mindy Belz

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	345 pages

The Roots of Persecution

The persecution of Christians in the Middle East is a complex issue with deep-rooted historical, political, and religious factors:

Historical Discrimination: For centuries, Christians have faced discrimination and oppression under Muslim rule, with restrictions on religious practices and social status.
Political Instability: The rise of extremist groups and the ongoing conflicts in the region have created a climate of fear and violence, targeting religious minorities, including Christians.
Religious Extremism: Radical Islamist ideologies and groups, such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda, view Christians as enemies of Islam and justify their persecution.

The Perils of Survival

For persecuted Christians, daily life is a constant struggle for survival. They face threats from:

Violence and Intimidation: Physical attacks, arson, and bombings against Christian churches and communities are common.
Abductions and Kidnappings: Christians are often targeted for kidnapping, held for ransom or subjected to forced conversions.
Economic Coercion: Christians face discrimination in employment, education, and access to basic services, forcing them into poverty and isolation.

A Journey of Fear

Driven by fear and the relentless pursuit of persecution, many Christians are forced to flee their homes, seeking safety in neighboring countries or farther afield.

A Refugee Family, Their Faces Filled With Exhaustion And Uncertainty, Carrying Their Belongings As They Flee Their War Torn Home. They Say We Are Infidels: On The Run With Persecuted Christians In The Middle East

The journey is fraught with danger and uncertainty. Christians navigate perilous routes, often hiding in makeshift camps or traveling at night to avoid detection. They face checkpoints, extortion, and the threat of detention or deportation.

Seeking Refuge in the Shadows

For those who manage to escape, life as a refugee often comes with its own set of challenges:

Limited Asylum Options: Many countries are reluctant to grant asylum to Christians, fearing an influx of refugees or conflicts with Muslim populations.
Cultural Barriers: Adjusting to new cultures, languages, and social norms can be daunting for persecuted Christians.
Ongoing Trauma: The horrors they have witnessed and the loss they have endured leave many Christian refugees with psychological trauma that requires support and counseling.

A Call for Compassion and Support

The persecution of Christians in the Middle East is a humanitarian crisis that demands global attention and compassion.

We must:

Advocate for Their Rights: Raise awareness about the plight of persecuted Christians and advocate for their protection and freedom of religion.
Provide Humanitarian Aid: Support organizations providing food, shelter, and medical assistance to Christian refugees and those displaced by persecution.
Offer Asylum and Refuge: Countries must open their doors to persecuted Christians seeking asylum and provide them with a safe haven.

Hope Amidst Adversity

Despite the overwhelming challenges they face, persecuted Christians cling to hope.

A Group Of Persecuted Christians Gathered In Prayer, Their Hands Raised In Hope And Resilience. They Say We Are Infidels: On The Run With Persecuted Christians In The Middle East

They find solace in their faith, and they draw strength from the resilience of their communities. Their stories of survival and unwavering belief serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

As we witness the ongoing persecution of Christians in the Middle East, let us not turn a blind eye. Let us stand in solidarity with those who suffer and work towards a world where every person has the freedom to practice their faith without fear.

They Say We Are Infidels: On the run with persecuted Christians in the Middle East

by Mindy Belz

4.7 out of 5