The Christian Communities and the Economic and Social Situation in Lebanon

Abstract

Abstract For a clear and precise discussion of the current social and economic situation of Lebanese Christians, it is essential to remember what a ‘religious community’ in Lebanon is and what its specific characteristics are.The religious communities in Lebanon are social groups originally linked by the same faith and the same religious rites. These communities, which have formed during the course of history, have their own religious apparatus which is structured in various ways and is different from one community to another. They have different roles, apart from the strictly religious one: they often control the communities’ school networks and their universities. They also have partial control over the numerous com¬ munity associations, social or charity work, healthcare networks, cultural groups, youth clubs and movements, as well as associations with purely religious purposes. Most of the communities possess property/funds which represent sources of income for their apparatus and their institutions.