The Church of Christ (Messiah) holds the distinction of being the first church constructed in Jerusalem after the Crusaders departed, and it stands as the initial Protestant church in the Middle East. Situated in the Armenian Quarter, just across from the Tower of David Museum, this church is part of a complex that includes a museum, school, and café—all of which are well worth exploring during your visit.
The Church story
By the end of the year 1500, a groundbreaking innovation called “Printing” emerged, with the earliest printed book being the Bible. This led to a revelation among people that some teachings in the church were inaccurate, and that God had not abandoned the Jews. Suddenly, Christians in Europe recognized the Jewish people as the chosen ones and felt compelled to assist them.
In 1800, a war erupted in Europe, sparking beliefs that it signaled the end of the world and the imminent return of the Messiah, Jesus, to Israel. However, there weren’t enough Jews in Israel for this to happen. In response, many believers decided to support Jewish immigration to Israel.
In 1809, a new ministry called the Church Ministry Among Jewish People (CMJ) was established. According to their official website, their mission was to aid Jews in returning to their homeland to fulfill God’s will, thereby paving the way for the return of Christ.
(website : https://www.cmj-israel.org/)
In 1840, a collaboration between two bishops occurred in Jerusalem. German and English Protestants joined forces to construct a church in the area, primarily employing masons from the island of Malta. However, internal conflicts led to its dissolution by 1887.
Additionally, the compound housed the first British consulate in Israel. Due to the prevalence of illness and death in the area at that time, a hospital was also established within the compound.
How the church was saved from the bombing.
The church’s architecture resembles a cross, yet it also bears a striking resemblance to a synagogue. Legend has it that during the 1948 war, Jordanian forces intended to bomb this structure, mistaking it for a synagogue. Quick-thinking church staff managed to convince them otherwise, averting disaster. Nearby, the “Hurva” synagogue was not as fortunate and was completely destroyed.
Inside the church
Facing the Temple Mount, this church displays numerous Jewish symbols, including the menorah and the ark bearing the Ten Commandments. At its center lies an altar table featuring the Greek symbols Alpha and Omega, representing Jesus as the beginning and end of all things. Inscribed in Hebrew on the altar is “Emanuel,” a name attributed to Jesus.
One window depicts a tree branching out like a lamp on one side and a cross on the other, serving as a reminder to Christians not to forget their Jewish roots. Another window aims to elucidate the Holy Trinity to Jews, featuring depictions of God, Emanuel, and the Spirit of God.
Towards the back of the church, one can observe representations of the seven species from the Bible. The ceiling, crafted from English oak imported from England, bears a resemblance to the flag of England when looked upon from below.
At the church entrance, a table displays flyers in various languages, offering explanations about this unique place.
Basic information
Address -Armenian Quarter, Infront of David Tower Museum entrance.
Christianity Protestant and Jew-Christian order.
Year of build 1840
Arrival options
| Bus lines | To reach the church, take the #1 bus from the central bus station. Disembark near Jaffa Gate, adjacent to the Mamilla shopping center, and enter the old city. Once inside, head towards the Armenian market and take a right turn. You’ll soon spot the David Tower Museum on your right. The church is located in front of the museum. Simply pass through a gate, and you’ll arrive at your destination. |
| Car | You can park you car in Mamilla parking lot and walk by foot from Jaffa Gate. |
| Taxi | If you take a taxi, the nearest point they will get you is to the market in Armenian market, and from there, it’s very easy . |
| Walking | If you stay overnight in Jerusalem city center, walk by foot to Jaffa gate and as mentioned look for David Tower Museum, and the church is beyond a gate infront of it. |
Accessibility: It is accessible for wheelchairs.
Opening Hours Daily 10:00 am- 17:00 pm
No entrance fees
Phone number +927-(0)2-6277727
Toilet- available in the café or at the entrance to the Jaffa Gate near the information centre.
Nearby site activities
When visiting the old city of Jerusalem, be sure not to neglect the churches of Mount Zion, the Christian quarter featuring the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and the vibrant food and market scene in the Muslim quarter. And don’t forget to place your wish in the Western Wall for a memorable experience.
