Patriarch Mar Awa III Royel and Archishop Mar Benedict Younan discuss Christian emigration and revitalization efforts

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq — On Wednesday, Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East Mar Awa III Royel hosted Syriac Catholic Archbishop of Mosul and Kerkeslokh (Kirkuk) Mar Benedict Younan at the Patriarchal headquarters in Erbil, Kurdistan of Iraq (KRI).

The meeting focused on the pressing issue of Christian emigration from the region. The leaders discussed strategies to encourage Christians to remain in their ancestral lands and explored initiatives to promote the return of those in the diaspora. Key among these efforts is fostering collaboration with local governments to create job opportunities that would provide returning families with a stable and dignified life.

Discussions also touched on the situation in the historic Nineveh Plains, emphasizing the Syriac Catholic Diocese’s ongoing projects to support and serve the local Christian community.

Archbishop Younan extended a formal invitation to the Patriarch to attend the upcoming Feast of the Monastery of Saints Mar Behnam and Sarah. This significant event holds deep spiritual and cultural importance for the Syriac Catholic Diocese.

The dialogue underscored the shared commitment of the church leaders to preserving Christian presence in Iraq and strengthening their communities in the face of ongoing challenges.