Christianity in Eritrea
Christianity in Eritrea is part of the incredible growth story of Christianity in Africa. That's the Good News. Sadly, there is also significant persecution in Eritrea, and thus it has often featured in Open Doors World Watch List. It features at #4 in 2024.
Contents
Population of Christians
The Population of Eritrea is around 3.5 MN and Christians constitute just about half of that as of 2024 at 1.75 MN.
What does persecution look like in Eritrea?
"Eritrea has lingered in the top 10 of the [Open Doors] World Watch List for years. It's known as the "North Korea of Africa" due to its intense authoritarian government. Eritrea only recognizes three Christian denominations (Eritrean Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Lutheran), so anyone who follows Jesus outside of these sanctioned churches is at constant risk. Even in the recognized churches, the government closely monitors every congregation. Speaking out about persecution or government interference in church matters is not tolerated at all."
"Raids to round up believers who worship God outside of the recognized denominations are common. When Christians are caught in these raids, they can be sent into Eritrea's notorious prison network, where they can be detained indefinitely. Current estimates suggest around 1,000 Eritrean Christians are imprisoned—and they haven't been charged with any crime. Members of some house churches have been in prison for more than 10 years, enduring shocking conditions, including solitary confinement in tiny cells." [1]
