Patriarch Mar Paul III Noona and Governor Haitham Al-Zahwan Visit Historic Green Church of Tikrit, Iraq, to Discuss Preservation of Religious and Cultural Heritage

The Patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church in Iraq and the world, Mar Paul III Noona, joined by Governor of Salahuddin, Haitham Al-Zahwan, visited the historic Green Church in Tikrit on 13 August 2026. During the visit, the Patriarch highlighted the church’s cultural significance and emphasized the need to preserve religious and heritage sites. He underscored the importance of fostering peaceful and fraternal coexistence among the province’s diverse communities.

The governor’s office stated that the visit was part of a broader initiative to explore the governorate’s historical and cultural landmarks. Both the governor and the Patriarch, along with his wife, toured the church’s historical monuments and values. They expressed concern for the preservation of religious and heritage sites, which they described as essential to the province’s cultural heritage and historical memory.

The governor reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to supporting all communities within the region. He stressed the importance of safeguarding religious and cultural heritage as a means of promoting coexistence, fraternity, and peace among the people. This aligns with the governorate’s broader efforts to maintain social harmony and respect for diverse traditions.

The Patriarch praised the local government’s initiatives in promoting peaceful coexistence. He reiterated the significance of preserving religious and historical sites, noting their role in reinforcing values of love and cooperation among society’s various components. His remarks reflect the shared responsibility of religious and civic leaders in nurturing a spirit of unity and mutual respect.

The visit concluded with an acknowledgment of the Green Church as a symbol of Tikrit’s cultural memory and a testament to the region’s diversity. Both the governor and the Patriarch expressed hope that such efforts would strengthen the community’s identity and foster continued collaboration in preserving its rich heritage.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)