Two days’ fasting to ask God for peace, security and stability in Iraq. It is the initiative launched by the Patriarch of Babylon of the Chaldeans, Emmanuel III, Delly, for 18th and 19th December, addressed to all Chaldeans, not only Iraqi ones, but those of all over the world. "In fasting and relinquishment, one rediscovers the depth of prayer says to SIR the auxiliary bishop of Baghdad, mgr. Shlemon Warduni , and this helps, especially at times of need and desperation. Christmas is near, but for the Iraqi Christians it is a ‘Good Friday’ with no Resurrection". For a long time, the Christian communities have been the victims of violence, recalls the bishop: "over the last few months six priests have been abducted, and two of them have been killed. Tomorrow we will hold a meeting with the catechists but we do not know how many will come; the fear to be abducted or killed is great". There are also fears for the forthcoming holiday season: "we haven’t organised anything, here we have to live from day to day. Car bombs, violence, abductions and threats prevent us moving and planning. Bu I am sure that crèches and Christmas trees will not be missing in the homes of our devotees. But there will be no presents for the children. I ask the children of the world to start a chain of prayers to make their little Iraqi friends feel their friendship and sympathy".” ” ” ” ” “
