“Partnership” and “solidarity” Their meanings in a Middle Eastern context

Abstract

Where do Christians and Christianity stand in today’s Middle East? How does their situation affect North American Christians and why would their cause be of concern for the latter? What makes partnership and solidarity between Middle Eastern and North American churches of utmost importance? And how can a genuine partnership that would be of mutual benefit be launched in a way that would help Middle Eastern Christians maintain their presence in their homelands and North American Christians contribute to the preservation of their heritage? The article establishes a historical overview of Christianity in the Middle East, as well as an overall picture of the status of Christians in light of the latest developments in the region. In addition, it puts forward practical steps for a more-than-ever vital partnership between Middle Eastern and North American churches in order to face the common challenges, serve the common cause, and save the common Christian heritage—and hence the common future of Christianity.