Coptic Christians

Counting Coptic Christians in Egypt

How Coptic Christians are (or aren’t) counted is a politically charged question in Egypt.

Eritrean Clergy in Captivity

Although unknown to many Americans, Eritrea is a nation of particular concern for religious liberty.

Egypt’s Burning Churches

It is awful enough news that Egypt’s Christians are suffering the effects of years of restrictions on building churches. Yet it is even worse news that they may, yet again, have also become the target of Islamic terrorists.

The Suffering of the Saints

Distinguishing between intentional persecution and national malfeasance is difficult for Egyptian Copts.

Day 3: Born of a What??? - Virgin Mary - Yule Blog
Day 3: Born of a What???

Conventional manger scenes don’t show it, but besides the ox, the ass, the sheep, and the camels, there was another animal in the room at Christmas: an elephant. And the elephant in the room was the idea that Jesus’ mother was a virgin when He was born. A Yuletide blog that didn’t talk about the elephant wouldn’t be doing its job.

Government Report Signals Hope for Middle Eastern Christians - USCIRF
Government Report Signals Hope for Middle Eastern Christians

While these reports are never perfect, their existence reflects how the US government is uniquely positioned to serve as a global leader in the promotion of human rights. USCIRF’s commissioners and staff deserve commendation for producing them.

Egypt Must Secure Minority Rights before Celebrating Religious Freedom
Egypt Must Secure Minority Rights before Celebrating Religious Freedom

While Sisi has made some improvements, stating that Egypt has achieved some advanced level of religious freedom or pluralism is fantastical and premature.

A Close Look at Egypt’s Relentless Abuse of Coptic Christians
A Close Look at Egypt’s Relentless Abuse of Coptic Christians

For those of us who have followed the struggle of Egypt’s Coptic Christians, particularly during the presidency of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al Sisi, there’s been both good news and bad news.

Day 3: Born of a What??? Yule Blog Virgin Mary
Day 3: Born of a What???

Conventional manger scenes don’t show it, but besides the ox, the ass, the sheep, and the camels, there was another animal in the room at Christmas: an elephant. And the elephant in the room was the idea that Jesus’ mother was a virgin when He was born.