The Chaldean Patriarchate announces the cancellation of all activities (concerts in clubs or Church halls and media coverage) celebrating Christmas this year 2023, in protest against the withdrawal of the Presidential decree (147) from Patriarch Louis Raphael Sako (Head of the Global Chaldean Church and Cardinal) and also in respect of the Qaraqosh’s tragedy victims (133) on September 26 2023 as well as the victims of the ongoing devastating war in the Holy Land.
Celebrations are limited to prayers for peace and stability in Iraq, the Holy Land and the region. We won’t accept congratulations or receive government officials on Christmas and the New Year.
It is worth mentioning that this is the second time in history of the Church that the Patriarch sought refuge in Erbil. The first time was in 1294, due to the persecution of the Mongol King Arghun, Hulagu’s grandson, when Patriarch Yehabalaha III took refuge in Erbil Castle.
This time is “in protest” against the withdrawal of Decree (147) in July 2023, by the current Iraqi President Dr. Abdul Latif Rashid, who considered his decision as an achievement to amend the constitution, which is “obviously a personal issue” since, he did not touch decrees of other bishops. Where is the legal and constitutional justification?
However, and despite our painful and sad circumstances, the Chaldean Church and other Churches insist on firmly adhering to the message of Christ, the message of love, hope and peace.
