New Patriarch of Chaldean Catholic Church Assumes Leadership in Iraq

Polis III Nona, formerly known as Amel Shamoon Nona, assumed leadership of the Chaldean Catholic Church in Iraq on Friday. He succeeded Cardinal Louis Sako, who stepped down in March to focus on “prayer, writing and simple service.” Nona, 58, previously served as archbishop of Mosul and Sydney before becoming patriarch of the Chaldean Church.

The inauguration of the new patriarch occurs amid a declining Christian population in Iraq. Since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion and the rise of the Islamic State, the number of Christians has dropped significantly. During the Islamic State’s rule, which lasted from 2014 to 2017, Christians faced discrimination and many churches were destroyed.

The defeat of the Islamic State in Iraq in 2017 marked a turning point, but the Christian community has continued to face challenges. Today, approximately 150,000 Christians remain in Iraq, compared to 1.5 million in 2003. The country’s total population exceeds 40 million.

The Chaldean Catholic Church is one of nearly two dozen Eastern Rite churches in full communion with Rome. It traces its roots to the ancient Eastern Church in Mesopotamia and is now predominant in Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, and among diaspora communities.

As the new patriarch, Nona faces the responsibility of leading a church that has endured significant hardship. His leadership comes at a time when the community continues to navigate the aftermath of conflict and the ongoing challenges of preserving its heritage and presence in the region.

The Chaldean Church’s role in the broader Christian landscape of the Middle East remains significant. Its history and current leadership reflect the resilience of a community that has weathered political and religious upheaval. The new patriarch’s tenure will be closely watched as he seeks to guide the church through these complex times.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)