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History of the Catholic Church in Morocco

Morocco

Morocco is the country of North Africa with the most favourable situation for Christians: the Catholic community has freedom of veneration, active churches and the discreet support of the Alawi monarchy. The Franciscan martyrs of the 13th century and the priests of the 20th century bear witness to a faith that has resisted the passage of the centuries.

The Franciscan martyrs of Marrakech (1220)

The first Christian martyrs in Morocco were six Franciscans who arrived in Marrakech in 1220 to preach the Gospel. They were executed by order of the Sultan Almohade. He was among them. San Berardo, Bishop of Marrakech. They were canonized in 1481 and their memory is celebrated on January 16.

Saint Marcelo and the martyrs of Ceuta (1227)

San Marcelo and other Franciscans were martyred in Ceuta (then Moroccan territory) in 1227. His testimony of faith to Islam became a model for Franciscan missions in the Maghreb.

The Protectorate and the Colonial Church (1912- 1956)

The establishment of the French protectorate (northern Spain; southern France) brought a significant Catholic presence:

• Construction of cathedrals in Rabat, Casablanca y Chatger.
• Arrival of religious congregations: Franciscans, cappuccino, Brothers of Christian Schools, White parents.
• The Catholic community reached about 500,000 members (mostly French and Spanish settlers).

Independence and the Hassan II era (1956-1999)

The independence of Morocco (1956) was the departure of most settlers, but the Catholic Church maintained its presence:

• The king Hassan II It guaranteed freedom of veneration for Christians.
• The churches continued to work for the converted Moroccans and foreigners.
• Proselytism was prohibited, but private practice was tolerated.

King Mohammed VI and interreligious dialogue

The king Mohammed VI (since 1999) has actively promoted interreligious dialogue:

• Morocco hosted the Jerusalem Guardians Conference (2014).
• synagogues were rehabilitated and historical Catholic buildings were protected.
• The king is "Comendator of the Believers," a title that gives him religious authority and promotes tolerance.

The Catholic Church in Morocco today

The present Moroccan Catholic Church has about 30,000- 50,000 faithful, most of whom are sub-Saharan and European workers. Two dioceses:

• Archdiocese of Rabat: with parishes in Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech and other cities.
• Diócesis de Tánger: with parishes in Tangier, Tetuan, Nador and the northern region.

The Franciscans in Morocco

Los Franciscans they have maintained an uninterrupted presence in Morocco since the 13th century. They cherish sanctuaries, serve parishes and promote dialogue with Islam. His presence is one of the oldest in Christianity in the Muslim world.

Prayer for the Church in Morocco

Lord, that in the land of Morocco the Franciscans gave their lives by faith, look with love to the Church who lives in this country today. May the martyrs of Marrakech intercede for the Moroccan Christians. May Mary, Mother of the Church, be a bridge of dialogue between Christians and Muslims. May King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan people be examples of coexistence for the world. Amen.