Armenians Enjoy Full Religious Freedom in Iran: Archbishop Sarkissian
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Armenian archbishop of Tehran Sebouh Sarkissian said Armenians enjoy all rights of an ordinary citizen in Iran and can freely observe their religious ceremonies and holidays in the predominantly-Muslim country.
The Iranian government recognizes the rights of all Christians and followers of Jesus Christ (PBUH) are allowed to observe their religious ceremonies, including the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of Jesus, archbishop Sarkissian told the Spanish news agency EFE.
Hailing Iran's peace and security amid war and chaos in the Middle East, he described the Islamic Republic as a safe and stable country where Christians enjoy religious freedom and have never been subject to persecution.
He further attached great importance to maintaining Armenians’ cultural heritage in Iran, saying that the aim of all Christian schools, organizations and churches is to preserve Armenians’ religious and moral identity.
As Christians around the world celebrate Christmas, the holiday season is also observed in Iran, a predominantly Muslim nation where Christians make up less than 1% of the population.
Christmas trees decorated with red, green and gold gift boxes placed behind shop windows or at the entrances of different shopping malls and hotels can be seen, especially in Christian neighborhoods of Tehran.
