Christians in Israel: a diverse minority rooted in history

Israel is often associated with Judaism and, more recently, Islam, due to its complex regional dynamics. Yet, nestled within this vibrant mosaic is a significant Christian community - diverse, historic, and integral to the fabric of Israeli society.

Christians in Israel.

How many Christians live in Israel?

As of the end of 2023, approximately 185.000 Christians live in Israel, constituting about 1.9% of the total population. While small in number, their presence is deeply rooted, dating back to the earliest days of Christianity.

Who are the Christians in Israel?

The Christian community in Israel is not monolithic. It includes a variety of denominations and ethnic identities:

• Arab Christians: the majority of Christians in Israel - around 75% - are Arab Christians. They speak Arabic, share many cultural traits with their Muslim neighbors, but often identify as a distinct minority group.

• Greek Orthodox: this is the largest denomination among Arab Christians. They maintain centuries-old traditions and religious institutions, particularly in Jerusalem and Nazareth.

• Roman Catholics (Latin and Eastern rites): these include Melkites and Maronites, among others. The Melkite Greek Catholic Church, in particular, is prominent in Galilee.

• Armenian Apostolic: centered mostly in Jerusalem’s Armenian Quarter, the Armenian community has a unique identity and ancient presence in the region.

• Protestants and Evangelicals: this includes small local congregations and growing international communities, particularly among Jewish and non-Jewish immigrants.

• Russian and Eastern European Christians: many arrived in the 1990s with the post-Soviet aliyah. While ethnically Jewish (under the Law of Return), many identify religiously or culturally as Christian or mixed-faith.

• Foreign Workers and Refugees: thousands of Filipino, African, Indian, and Eastern European Christians live in Israel as caregivers, laborers, or asylum seekers, especially in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Where do Christians live?

Most Christians in Israel live in the north - specifically in cities and towns like:

• Nazareth - the largest Arab-Christian city in Israel and the historical hometown of Jesus.

• Haifa - known for religious coexistence and a sizable Christian population.

• Shfaram, Fassuta, Ma’alot-Tarshiha, and other mixed cities in the Galilee.

• Jerusalem - home to diverse Christian communities, especially in the Old City.

Smaller populations live in Jaffa, Tel Aviv, and Ramla, often in mixed neighborhoods.

Integration into Israeli Society

Arab Christians are frequently referred to as a “bridge community.” While a minority within a minority (Arabs comprise about 21% of Israel’s population), Arab Christians often stand out for their high levels of education, employment, and civic engagement:

• Education: Christian Arabs have the highest success rates in Israel's matriculation exams, even surpassing Jewish Israelis.

• Higher education and professions: many are doctors, lawyers, teachers, and engineers.

• Military service: while not mandatory for Arab citizens, a growing number of Arab Christians - especially from the Aramaic-speaking community and some Greek Orthodox - have volunteered for the IDF in recent years, despite controversy within their broader communities.

Non-Arab Christians (e.g., Russians, Filipinos) often face different challenges - ranging from religious recognition to legal residency status. However, many integrate through the workforce and religious institutions.

Christian Holy Sites in Israel

Israel is home to some of the most sacred Christian sites in the world, including:

• The Church of the Holy Sepulchre (Jerusalem)

• The Basilica of the Annunciation (Nazareth)

• The Sea of Galilee and Mount of Beatitudes

• The Jordan River, traditional site of Jesus’ baptism

These locations make Israel a major destination for Christian pilgrims, contributing to both tourism and interfaith dialogue.

A vibrant, complex minority

Christians in Israel are a small but deeply rooted community. From Nazareth schoolteachers to Armenian monks in Jerusalem, to Russian-speaking nurses in Tel Aviv, their stories form an important layer in Israel’s multicultural society. As Israel continues to evolve, so too does the role and visibility of its Christian citizens.