02/02/2019 Iraq (International Christian Concern) –  Christian leaders in Iraq are increasingly stressing how rebuilding the Christian presence in the country should take a multi-prong approach related to the material, spiritual, and community needs. Chaldean Patriarch Louis Sako is particularly emphasizing the need for spiritual and community development among Iraq’s Christians.

Internationally, much emphasis has been placed on the material needs of Iraq’s shrinking Christian population. Most were displaced by ISIS in 2014. The material destruction which ISIS initiated against Christians is alarmingly stark. Iraq estimates that ISIS caused over $88 billion in damage, most of which occurred in areas that Christians traditionally live. The vast amount of destruction has caused numerous challenges as Christians attempt to rebuild their lives following ISIS.

The damage which ISIS perpetuated was not just material, however. Christians watched many of their neighbors join ISIS, effectively breaking community trust. As victims of genocide, many suffer from the consequences of trauma. Many Christians who remain in Iraq have family or friends living abroad, giving a sense of loneliness. The empty and damaged churches throughout Iraq are symbolic of the suffering which Christians have faced for decades.

For interviews with Claire Evans, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: [email protected].