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Christian Persecution in Syria
Overview:
Syrian Christians’ lives have been severely disrupted by the civil war that began in 2011. Caught in the crossfire in this brutal conflict between Muslim factions, believers have been abused and attacked from all sides. More than 750,000 Christians have been driven from the country. The churches and believers that have been able to remain in Syria have served as a beacon of hope and a source of peace for both Christians and Muslims throughout the war. Many Muslims have come to Christ as Christians have reached out with acts of compassion and practical assistance. Since the fall of the government of Bashar al-Assad in 2025, reports that neighboring countries may send Syrian refugees back to Syria have given believers hope that those who came to faith in nearby countries will return and strengthen local churches.
Major Religion:
Sunni Muslims compose about 75 percent of Syria’s population. Christians, who have historically made up about 10 percent of the population, have significantly decreased in number since the outset of the war, with many seeking refuge in neighboring countries.
Persecutor:
With the fall of the Syrian government, Islamist groups continue their efforts to drive Christians out of Syria through acts of hostility, persecution and violence. While Muslim communities, in general, can be hostile to Christians, severe persecution usually comes from the Islamist groups. Recent attacks on Christians have heightened fears, leaving the Christian community uncertain about its future, particularly in light of overt signs and acts of Islamization under the current government.
What It Means To Follow Christ In Syria
Syria was once known for religious tolerance, relative to most nations in the Middle East. However, in recent years Syrian Christians have faced the same restrictions and opposition that are common in the region’s more restricted Islamist nations. Christians commonly suffer the loss of jobs, homes, social standing and family relationships. Those born into Christian families are able to worship freely in church buildings as long as they keep their faith to themselves, but Christians who share the gospel face opposition from both extremists and the government. Churches struggle to meet the needs of the overwhelming number of displaced people. Still, some Christians have chosen to stay in the country to serve as a witness for Christ, despite the danger and harsh conditions.
Access To Bibles
A variety of Bibles in multiple formats are available through Bible societies, bookstores and ministries. However, access and distribution have become difficult and dangerous in many areas. Give Bibles
VOM Work
VOM helps meet the basic needs of displaced Christians. We also support persecuted believers by providing evangelistic resources and training for Christian leaders. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Prayer Requests:
- Islamist militias overthrew Syria's dictatorial regime in late 2024. Pray that Christians will have freedom to worship.
- Pray for more than 750,000 Christians who were driven from Syria during the civil war.
- Pray for Christians who have lost jobs, homes and family relationships because of their faith.
- Pray that many Muslims will turn to Christ as Christians proclaim the gospel and help meet their needs.
- Pray that churches and believers in Syria will be beacons of hope and sources of peace in their country.