Acknowledgement and Disclaimer

This study was conducted during the peak of the novel coronavirus outbreak in Palestine and
the world. As a result, we were forced to rely mainly on virtual meetings and phone calls to
collect the relevant feedback from stakeholders. Despite the restrictions on movement and
general uncertainty due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the researcher succeeded in completing
the study, albeit in a longer time period than initially anticipated. The harsh but necessary
health and safety regulations in force had a significant impact on the vital sectors targeted by
the study. Three major lockdowns imposed by both Israeli and Palestinian authorities, the third
of which has only recently been lifted, devastated the tourism sector. The partial closure of schools and other academic facilities has crippled the educational sector and will undoubtedly
have repercussions in the future. Despite these challenges, the mapping was completed without
a full assessment of the tourism sector. The data and statistics collected regarding this sector are very likely to improve after the global pandemic ends and this vital sector can resume its activities.
Executive Summary Despite the chronic socioeconomic and political challenges that exist in the Holy Land, a large number of church-related organizations (CROs) play major developmental and humanitarian roles in serving the Palestinian people. This unique and comprehensive study reveals the outstanding contribution made by the different Christian organizations operating in Palestine
and their crucial impact on all sectors of local Palestinian society.
The size of the Christian community in Palestine has dwindled in recent years in comparison
with other faiths. In spite of that, Christian developmental and humanitarian work has continued
to flourish by extending support to local residents of various backgrounds and in every aspect
of life, as this study proves. A total of 296 organizations offer continuous assistance “in the
service of humankind”.
The study highlightsthe tremendousimpact made by the small number of Christiansin Palestine
in improving the lives of many people, and demonstrates the sense of cultural responsibility
among Palestinians towards community service regardless of religious belief, social status or
political affiliation. Over 90% of the beneficiaries of these organizations are non-Christians
from across the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem.
At present, 93 schools, universities, and vocational centers, 19 healthcare facilities, 47 social
protection institutions, 77 cultural and tourism centers, 38 youth and scout centers, one
environmental center, and 21 local and international development agencies deliver a variety of
services to hundreds of thousands of Palestinians as part of their Christian identity and culture.
Female employees constitute over 70% of the staff in educational CROs, and approximately
65% in healthcare CROs and development aid organizations. Overall, women constitute half of
the CRO workforce across the other sectors read more...