(241222) — BEIRUT, Dec. 22, 2024 (Xinhua) — People enjoy themselves in celebration of the upcoming Christmas in Beirut, Lebanon, on Dec. 21, 2024. The Christmas fair, or the 12th session of the annual “Christmas In Action,” runs from Dec. 13 to Dec. 23. It is the largest and most creative Christmas market in Lebanon, where visitors can taste delicacies, enjoy live musical performances, participate in arts activities, and fully immerse themselves in an enchanting atmosphere of Christmas joy. TO GO WITH “Feature: Lebanon’s annual Christmas fair revives festive spirit after war” (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich)
Christians in Lebanon are a significant and historically important demographic group, playing a crucial role in the country’s history, politics, and culture. Here’s an overview of their presence and influence:
Christian population
Christians make up a significant portion of Lebanon’s population, which is estimated to be around 4.5 to 5.5 million people (as of recent data). Here’s a breakdown of the Christian community in Lebanon:
Percentage of Christians in Lebanon
- Approximately 33%-40% of the population identifies as Christian, though estimates vary due to the lack of an official census since 1932.
Christian Denominations
Lebanon’s Christians belong to a variety of denominations, the most prominent being:
- Maronite Catholics (largest group)
- Greek Orthodox
- Melkite Greek Catholics
- Armenian Apostolic
- Protestants and Evangelicals (smaller proportion)
Unique Political Role
Lebanon’s political system is confessional, meaning it allocates political power based on religious affiliation. Christians, particularly Maronites, have historically held significant roles:
- The President of Lebanon must be a Maronite Christian.
- Christians are guaranteed 50% of the seats in Parliament.
Challenges
- The Christian population in Lebanon has decreased over the decades due to emigration, regional instability, and lower birth rates compared to Muslim communities.
- Despite these challenges, Christians in Lebanon remain a vital and influential community in the nation’s cultural, political, and economic spheres.
