Iran

Shi'a Islam has been the official religion of Iran since the 16th century, and Shiites form 89 percent of the population; 9 percent are Sunni. While Christians form less than 1 percent of the population, the church has a long history in Iran. The Assyrian Church of the East extended to Persia and beyond, from the 5th to the 7th century. Historically, this small church was called the Church of Persia. A small community still exists in Iran. The largest Christian group is the Armenian Apostolic Church, under the jurisdiction of the Holy See of Cilicia. During the 19th century, Catholic (both Latin and Eastern rites), Anglican and Protestant churches were established in Iran. There is also an Assembly of God church (Pentecostal). After the Islamic revolution in 1978, most newly established church properties were confiscated and educational institutions were limited to Christian education among Christians. During the 1980s the Bible society was banned and the government shut down many newly formed Protestant and Evangelical churches. In the following years the conditions for religious minorities have become more and more difficult.