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Christian

The New Pope’s First Trip

By Robert Jackson/Arab America Contributing Writer The first overseas trip by a pope is always an important one. Pope Leo XIV’s trip to Turkey, Lebanon, and the destinations within reflects the priorities of his papacy. His itinerary included interfaith ceremonies, visiting holy sites, meeting heads of state, and of course, greeting the people crowding to … Continued

Lebanon-Land of Hope, Peril, & Refuge-Rich Diversity That Shaped a Nation

In recognition of Lebanon’s Independence Day, we are pleased to present this special long-form feature by Ralph Hage — a sweeping narrative of the many communities that have shaped Lebanon across millennia. From the biblical landscapes of Saida and Tyre to the monasteries, mosques, synagogues, and mountain sanctuaries that sheltered generations, Lebanon emerges as a … Continued

A Quiet Mountain Gem-Mar Sassine Church in Beit Meri, Lebanon

The streets are alive with people, chattering and laughing, weaving between stalls piled high with food, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. The air smells of sizzling treats and fresh pastries, and everywhere you look, there’s something colorful to catch the eye. Above it all, the church bells ring nonstop, tossed back and forth by village men … Continued

Pathbreakers of Arab America—Heather Raffo

This is the ninetieth in Arab America’s series on American pathbreakers of Arab descent. The series features personalities from various fields, including entertainment, business, sports, science, the arts, academia, journalism, and politics. Contributing writer, John Mason, highlights our ninetieth pathbreaker, Heather Raffo, an American born to mixed Iraqi American parents. She is an eminent playwright who addresses issues as sensitive as Iraqi women affected by war and repression; an American Marine deeply affected by war in Falluja; and her two countries, Iraq and the U.S., both facing serious issues of internal division.

Interfaith Unity Shines through Dark Times in Damascus

By: Ramsey Zeidan / Arab America Contributing Writer In the wake of a devastating attack on Mar Elias Church in Damascus, Syrian Christians are confused, disheartened, and scared. The violent bombing that left over 25 people dead last week was the first of its kind in decades. Consequently, the attack is rattling the sense of … Continued

Byzantine Influence on Early Islamic Architecture

By: Ralph I. Hage / Arab America Contributing Writer Early Islamic and Byzantine architecture share common features such as domes, arches, and mosaics. This is due to their shared cultural heritage and the exchange of ideas throughout the Eastern Mediterranean and the Arab World. These elements highlight the continuity of these architectural traditions while also … Continued

Palestinian Christians: Feeling Doubly Let Down by Western Churches

By: Marianne Christiansen / Arab America Contributing Writer The article was originally published in the Danish Christian daily Kristeligt Dagblad on February 18, 2025. It has been translated from Danish by Uffe Gjerding for Arab America. We must break the silence – and speak for those who need to hear that they are seen as … Continued

70 Books to Read for National Arab American Heritage Month–NAAHM

Are you searching for the perfect book to read for Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM)? This curated list highlights works by American authors of Arab descent, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a compelling novel for your book club, an inspiring memoir for your classroom, or a moving collection of poetry, these books … Continued

All I Still Want for Christmas Is a Ceasefire

By: Stephanie Abraham /Arab America Contributing Writer At this time last year, Arab America published my piece “Cancel Christmas?, which announced that Christmas would not be celebrated publicly in the Holy Land. This meant that those of us in the diaspora who celebrate the religious and cultural holiday that marks the birth of Jesus could … Continued

The Crescent and the Cross: Christian Communities in the Arab World

By: Rania Basria / Arab America Contributing Writer The Arab world is frequently described as a region in conflict, primarily between Muslim and Christian populations. However, this narrative oversimplifies a rich tapestry of coexistence, cultural exchange, and reciprocal impact that has defined these societies’ relationships throughout history. Arab America contributing writer, Rania Basria, digs into … Continued

Voices in the Shadows: The Political Influence of Religious and Ethnic Minorities in the Arab World

Photo source: Wikimedia Commons By: Rania Basria / Arab America Contributing Writer In the Arab world, a diverse tapestry of cultures, languages, and faiths coexist with the dominant Arab identity. Religious and ethnic minorities, including Christians, Druze, Kurds, and Berbers, have made major political, social, and economic contributions, influencing the region’s past and future. Arab … Continued

History of the Israel-Lebanon Border

By: Liam Nagle / Arab America Contributing Writer Like many colonial constructs in the Middle East, the border between Israel and Lebanon is relatively new. Created to separate portions of the British and French mandates, this territory has almost always been a battleground between Israeli forces and guerrilla groups. With tensions between Israel and the … Continued

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