Cardinal Sako Calls for Church Unity to Address Christian Exodus in Iraq

Cardinal Louis Raphaël Sako, Patriarch of the Chaldean Church, has called for unity among Iraq’s Christian communities to address the ongoing exodus of the country’s Christian population. In a statement dated 10 January, he accused the Iraqi government of failing to uphold democratic values and provide justice to Christians, stating that political inaction and corruption had contributed to the decline in public infrastructure and moral values.

Sako criticized the Christian leadership in Iraq, asserting that political representation had been undermined by the Babylon Brigades, a Christian militia linked to Iran. He argued that national, tribal, and rural fanaticism hindered efforts to unite Christians. The Chaldean Church, the largest denomination among Iraq’s 250,000 Christians, has previously urged other churches to cooperate or merge with it, but these efforts have failed due to the reluctance of some clergy to make critical decisions and the influence of the Babylon movement, which he claimed exploited bishops with promises of money, power, and leadership.

The patriarch also criticized the apostolic nuncio to Iraq, Archbishop Mitja Leskovar, for his inability to foster unity among Iraqi churches, citing a lack of understanding of Eastern culture and mentality. Sako divided the Christian leadership into two groups: those who passively adhere to tradition without addressing current needs, and those who are corrupt and blinded by wealth. He praised a third group of bishops as brave leaders who resist injustice and stand for the people.

Sako emphasized the need for decisive action and moral integrity within the Christian community to address the challenges facing Iraq’s Christians. His call for unity reflects a broader concern over the security and future of the Christian population in a country where minority groups face increasing pressure.

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