IRAQ: Baghdede marks first anniversary of wedding tragedy with memorial Mass for 135 victims

BAGHDEDE, Iraq — In commemoration of the first anniversary of the Baghdede wedding hall disaster, which claimed the lives of 135 people, Syriac Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Mosul Mar Benedict Younan Hanno presided over a solemn Mass at the Great Immaculate Cathedral in the Nineveh Plains town of Baghdede (Qaraqosh / Hamdaniya), Iraq. Fathers Ignatius Ovi and Peter Shito assisted in the service.

At the start of the mass, the names of the 135 victims were read aloud, their photographs displayed in the cathedral as a poignant reminder of the tragedy.

During his sermon, Bishop Hanno reflected on the profound impact the disaster has had on the community, stating that it forever altered the lives of families in Baghdede. He urged for justice, addressing a heartfelt plea to Iraq’s Prime Minister and the Supreme Judicial Council to expedite investigations and hold those responsible for the disaster accountable.

The Mass concluded with prayers for the repose of the souls of the victims, as the community mourned and honored the memory of their loved ones.