Why it matters:
Iranian officials highlight the country’s Christian heritage counters distorted narratives about Iran and demonstrates its long-standing tradition of religious coexistence and respect for divine faiths.
The big picture:
Iran is home to some of the oldest Christian communities in the world.
Historical records point to the presence of early disciples of Jesus Christ in Iranian lands.
Ancient churches remain active symbols of Iran’s pluralistic religious history.
What he’s saying:
Saeed Jazari:
“Iran takes pride in hosting some of the earliest apostles of Jesus Christ.”
“Their arrival in northwestern Iran, especially present-day Azarbaijan, and the establishment of churches such as the Qara Church — dating back to around 62 AD — demonstrate Iran’s role in the formation of the earliest Christian religious centers in the world.”
Key points:
Qara Church (St. Thaddeus Monastery) is recognized as one of the oldest churches globally and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Christian communities in Iran continue to practice their faith freely, with constitutionally protected rights.
Interfaith events hosted by Iranian institutions are part of broader efforts to promote dialogue among divine religions.
Go deeper:
Iran officially recognizes Christianity as a divine religion, granting parliamentary representation to Christian minorities.
Officials say such cultural and religious programs reinforce Iran’s message of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among faiths.
Mojtaba Darabi - A.Akbari
