1. Jerusalem and the Christian World
The Challenge Jerusalem is exalted by hundreds of millions of Christians the world over, and indeed Christians
and the Christian world play a historic and central role in Jerusalem. The minarets that dot
the landscape indicate a physical presence, and Christianity’s influence can be felt in the many
religious, educational, health, welfare and cultural institutions that operate in and around the
city. Almost all the different Christian groups have a local presence, representing believers
around the world, and the different churches own prime real estate around the city. In addition,
pilgrims account for a significant proportion of tourism to Jerusalem and the holy sites. And
yet, the local Christian communities have been dwindling in recent years and are showing
signs of hardship. These communities’ status and welfare in Israel, Jerusalem particularly, are of
enormous importance to the Christian world and to that world’s relationship with Israel. The
challenge here is to foster the local Christian communities and strengthen the ties of hundreds
of millions of believers to Jerusalem.
The Project Plan A work group will be set up to investigate planning and policy concerning “Jerusalem and the
Christian World.” The team will map, monitor and research the local Christian communities,
churches and other Christian elements operating in the city; examine ways to foster, strengthen
and develop the diverse Christian communities in the city; formulate policy to strengthen the
relationship between the Christian world and Jerusalem; propose a framework for achieving
those aims; recommend strategy for encouraging pilgrim tourism to Jerusalem; and encourage
educational and interfaith activities and tolerance in the city.
Anticipated Products Periodic reports on the state of the Christian communities, churches »» and other bodies
operating in the Jerusalem metropolis
»» Policy papers aimed at fostering Israel’s bond with these communities and official entities,
and with the Christian world
»»Activities: Seminars, roundtable meetings and other activities aimed at broadening the
knowledge base about the different Christian communities in Jerusalem and promoting
interfaith dialogue.
Anticipated Impact »»Updated government policy to foster the Christian communities in the city
»» Increased pilgrim tourism to Jerusalem
Lead Researchers Dr. Amnon Ramon, Prof. Raymond Cohen, Hana Bendcowsky, Yaska Harani
Cost The cost of the project
(policy papers, reports, activities): $120,000 per year for 2 years
The Jerusalem Institute for Israel Studies (founded in 1978) is an independent,
non-profit think tank, which has been engaged in the study of Jerusalem since its
inception. JIIS research covers a vast range of areas of life in Jerusalem: population,
economy, education, culture, tourism, environment, and more. Key to our success is
our closely guarded integrity, independence, and quality.