Nuncio demands quick intervention following anti-Christian attacks in Iraq

Rome, Italy, Dec 17, 2009 / 11:09 am

Archbishop Francis Chullikat, the Apostolic Nuncio to Iraq and Jordan, has demanded the immediate intervention by Iraqi leaders to “guarantee the necessary safety of the Christian minority,” in the wake of the attacks on two churches in the city of Mosul.

Speaking to the SIR news agency, the nuncio said that the “upsurge in violence that has taken place at two churches attacked in Mosul, should be confronted by the country’s authorities.”  He added that the Iraqi officials have always said they “would intervene in these instances immediately in order to guarantee the safety of Christians, who as a minority, have the right to request protection.”

For this reason, he continued, “It is urgent that officials provide just and immediate guarantees and security to Christians so they can live in peace and safety in the country.  This is even more necessary as Christmas approaches, when churches are full with the faithful who wish to celebrate the solemnity with enthusiasm.”

After explaining that Christians are the “most exposed minority and the easiest to attack because they have no protection of any kind, as they have no militias or security structures,” the nuncio recalled that those who believe in Christ “respond to violence with hope and goodness.”

“We will remain faithful to this mission, with the awareness of being with the entire Church and the Pope,” he added.  “Iraqi officials and the faithful know well that the Pontiff is united in solidarity with the suffering of Iraq and its Christian minority.”