Syriac Churches in Germany and Sweden honor İzla Neriman Özgun with memorial prayers

BERLIN / ÖREBRO, Sweden — Syriac churches across Germany and Sweden held Teshmesht memorial prayers to honor the soul of İzla Neriman Özgun, a martyr of the liberation struggle led by the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB). Priests delivering sermons celebrated her unwavering dedication to the national cause, emphasizing her enduring legacy in the hearts of her comrades and those who cherished her.

Global Call to Commemorate İzla

Responding to a message from the MUB urging its members worldwide to commemorate Hawro (Comrade) İzla Neriman Özgun, Syriac communities gathered in churches to pay tribute and participate in Teshmesht prayers.

Germany: Nationwide Tributes Across Syriac Churches

In Germany, Syriac churches held prayer services to honor İzla’s legacy. Teshmesht prayers were conducted in several cities, including St. Malke Church in Delbrück, St. Mary’s Church in Paderborn, St. Luke’s Church in Gütersloh, St. Jacob of Serugh Church in Göppingen, and churches in Verl and Hamburg.

During the sermons, priests reflected on İzla’s tireless contributions across Turkey, Syria, and Iraq, emphasizing that martyrdom is not only about sacrifice in blood but also about lifelong dedication to the people’s national and political rights. They highlighted her historic role as the first woman to officially join the MUB’s liberation movement, marking a significant milestone in the Syriac struggle for freedom.

Sweden: Solemn Tributes in Örebro

In Sweden, İzla was remembered with prayers at the altar of St. Aho Church in Örebro. The church’s priest extended heartfelt condolences to her family and comrades, offering prayers for her eternal peace among the righteous and saints. He announced that an official Teshmesht prayer would be held the following Sunday to continue honoring her memory within the Syriac Christian community.

As prayers and tributes poured in across Europe, the commemorations underscored İzla’s profound impact on the Syriac national movement. Her legacy remains deeply rooted in the collective memory of her people, ensuring that her sacrifices and dedication to the cause will never be forgotten.