Christianity in Modern Iraq

Abstract

Tradition attributes the evangelization of Mesopotamia to St Thomas and to an apostle called Addai as early as the first century AD. Christianity spread early in Iraq from the major centre of Edessa (today Urfa in south-east Turkey) in its Syriac linguistic and cultural form. Christianity in Iraq represents a direct line of continuity with history. However, Christians are a minority in modern Iraq, representing some 3–5 per cent of the population. Iraq's Christians can be divided into three main groups Catholic, Oriental Orthodox, Protestant and Anglican; however, the Chaldean Catholics are the dominant tradition. Ecumenism is a significant factor between the communities. Despite war, emigration and sanctions the presence of Christianity in Iraq is a witness to the creative and spiritual power of Oriental Christianity in the Middle East and an important source for the religious and political renewal of the region.