Syriac Catholic Patriarch Younan visits Baghdad, raises prayers for earthquake victims

BAGHDAD — During a visit to Baghdad, Syriac Catholic Patriarch Mor Ignatius Youssef III Younan held a series of meetings and a Mass for the victims of the earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria.

The Patriarch met with Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid at Baghdad Palace and expressed his delight in visiting Iraq, the land of his ancestors. He emphasized the need to ensure the safety of Christians in the country and emphasized the importance of unity, equality, and the preservation of rights and duties for all components of Iraq, including Christians.

Patriarch Younan also visited President of the Supreme Judicial Council Judge Faiq Zaidan at the Council’s headquarters in Baghdad. He praised the Council’s role in upholding the rule of law and emphasized the importance of mutual respect and understanding between the various components of the Iraqi people, particularly between Christians and Muslims.

Judge Zaidan emphasized the role of Christians in building Iraq and promoting cohesion among its citizens and expressed full support for preserving the rights and property of Christians in Iraq.

The Patriarch also visited the Saint Toma Monastery of the Dominican Sisters in Baghdad where he met with the nuns and learned about their prominent works, activities, and services in Baghdad.

Finally, Patriarch Younan held a Divine Liturgy at Saint Joseph Church in Baghdad for the earthquake victims. He prayed for the Lord to have mercy on their souls, heal the wounded, stand by those affected, and support those who provide aid and assistance to the injured.