Arab, Palestinian in Honduras

Introduction / History

Palestinian Arabs fall into a category classified as Levant Arabs. "Levant" is a broad term that includes several groups of Arabs: the Jordanian, Palestinian, Iraqi, Chaldean, and Syrian Arabs. Today, several hundred thousand Levant Arabs live along the northern edges of the Arabian Desert. They are spread from Israel to Kuwait and as far east as Iran. Small groups can also be found in North Africa. Others live in the US, Canada or even Honduras.

In many parts of the world, Palestinian Arabs are Muslim, but not in Honduras. Most are Orthodox Christians from Bethlehem.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Palestinian Arabs in Honduras have risen above the ordeals they faced. Palestinians have achieved significant economic success, particularly in commerce and manufacturing. In the new millennium, they have also found success politically, even in the highest office of the presidency.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Palestinian Arabs are in Honduras primarily orthodox Christians. Honduras takes in refugees who come because of religious persecution. For this reason, there is a high percentage of Christians among Palestinian Arabs in Honduras.

What Are Their Needs?

Like most immigrant groups, there is conflict between the first and second generations. Those who came from the old country want their children to conform to the old culture. There is often a backlash from younger Palestinian Arabs who want to fully integrate in Honduran society, marry for love, etc.

Prayer Points

Pray for spiritual hunger among the Palestinian Arabs in Honduras that will lead them to share Christ and disciple others.
Ask God to give Palestinian Arab believers opportunities to share the love of Christ with others, in Honduras and beyond.
Pray that their traditional Muslim culture will soften, creating opportunities for the gospel to be shared among them.

Text Source:   Joshua Project