first christian church in qatar!

the catholic church of st. mary's is set to open next month in time for easter - the first christian church since islam's arrival in the 7th century!

the emir has allowed the construction of christian churches in qatar as a move to demonstrate an islam tolerant of other religions and human brotherhood. however, this has not been without criticism amongst many of the muslim population. many critics have branded the concept as 'repulsive' and believe that 'no cross should be raised in the sky of qatar, nor should bells toll in doha.'

the $7 million church has been constructed on public land donated by the emir therefore, it has the royal blessing. nevertheless, the congregation will take security precautions and will not overtly decorate the church with christian crosses - the building has been constructed without a cross or bell tower.

this is the first of four other christian denominations that are also planning to build churches here in qatar. once st. mary's opens, saudi arabia will be the only arab nation in the gulf that bans churches.