16:00, 10 October 2009

Father Alexander: Christians in Azerbaijan have no problems

The Azerbaijani citizens who profess Christianity experience no inconveniences. This was stated on October 9 by Father Alexander, Bishop of Baku and Pre-Caspian region, at the press conference on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of revival of the Baku-Pre-Caspian Eparchy of the Russian Orthodox Church.

In his comments on the religious situation in Azerbaijan, Father Alexander said that Azerbaijan was ever notable for high level of tolerance. "Azerbaijan has operating Christian temples and Sunday schools," he said.

Meanwhile, Azerbaijan saw more than once oppressions of Christian religious organizations. Thus, on December 24, 2007, the police and authorities of Baku conducted a joint power action against the Christian organization of Jehovah's Witnesses. Policemen cracked the door of the premise, where a religious meeting took place and detained several believers, having beaten at least two of them.

Conflicts are known of the authorities of Azerbaijan with the Seventh Day Adventists and members of the Baptist Church.

Author: Faik Medzhid

Source: CK correspondent