Iraq: Two Christians killed in Mosul

Mosul church bombed in 2009

Two Christians were killed in Mosul yesterday, the Chaldean Archbishop of Mosul, Mgr Amil Shamaoun Nona, reported to Fides. Expressing his "closeness and prayer for the family" Mgr Nona said the killers have not been identified.

Mgr Giorgio Lingua, Apostolic Nuncio in Iraq, commented: "I do not yet know the reasons of the crime. We must be careful not to link each episode of violence to religious hatred. Accidents happen for various reasons, in a general climate of violence: in Iraq today I would not say that there is a persecution of Christians as such. There are also signs of hope".

He added: "Of course the faithful are afraid: fear is the result of years and sad moments of recent history, in which the community has been hit. And, moreover the presence of Islamic fundamentalist groups should be noted. But Christians are bearing all the dangers."

He said that in recent weeks liquor stores, which are owned by Christians in Iraq, have been attacked.

He said this coming Christmas "will be celebrated with the same precautions as in past years: the celebrations will be held during the day, the churches will be protected, and without great outward expressions. I live with concern but with confidence and tranquillity".

Archbishop Nona succeeded Mgr Paul Faraj Rahho who was abducted and murdered in March 2008. At 44, he is one of the youngest bishops in the region.

Source: Fides