Farewell to Mar Addai II, Patriarch of the Ancient Church of the East

The Ancient Church of the East has entered a new era following the death of its Patriarch, Mar Addai II, who passed away on February 11 at the age of 74. His passing marks the end of a long period of leadership for the church, which traces its roots to the earliest days of Christianity and has a history of schism and reform. The church, which numbers around 70,000 baptized members, is part of the broader Eastern Syriac tradition that includes the Chaldean Catholic Church and the Assyrian Church of the East.

The Ancient Church of the East was formed in 1964 in response to liturgical reforms introduced by Patriarch Shimun XXII of the Assyrian Church of the East. These reforms, which included shortening the Lenten fast and adopting the Gregorian calendar for major liturgical celebrations, sparked controversy among Iraqi church leaders who opposed changes perceived as coming from abroad. This division led to the formation of a new ecclesial structure, with Bishop Thoma Darmo consecrated as patriarch in 1969. He established his headquarters in Baghdad and began leading the Ancient Church of the East.

After Thoma Darmo’s death in 1970, Mar Addai II was elected as his successor. He served as patriarch until his death, overseeing the church through decades of political and social upheaval in the region. His leadership was marked by efforts to maintain the church’s traditions while navigating the complex challenges of modernity and conflict.

In recent years, the Patriarch of the Chaldean Church, Mar Addai II, has spoken about the dwindling number of Christian families in Mosul, noting that fewer than seventy remain. He has also highlighted the resilience of Christians in the Nineveh Plain, who have endured years of displacement and hardship while remaining faithful to their faith. His comments reflect a broader concern for the survival of Christian communities in the region, which have faced significant challenges due to conflict and persecution.

Mar Addai II’s successor, Amel Shimon Nona, was elected as the new Patriarch of the Chaldean Church and took the name Paulos III. His election comes at a time when the church faces ongoing challenges, including the need to foster unity and address the needs of its communities. The transition of leadership underscores the importance of continuity and stability in a church that has weathered historical divisions and modern crises.

The Ancient Church of the East, like many religious communities in the region, continues to navigate the delicate balance between preserving its heritage and adapting to contemporary realities. The passing of Mar Addai II and the election of a new leader signal a new chapter for the church, one that will require careful stewardship and a commitment to the values that have defined its history.

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