I can think of only two words to describe it: total chaos.
I’m talking about the tidal wave of violence that’s sweeping across Iraq, as the extremist group called ISIS battles for control of the country.
Thousands of Christian and Muslim families remain trapped
in the deadly crossfire.
Here at Catholic Near East Welfare Association, this has us completely alarmed.
Only days ago, two sisters and three young Iraqi Christians disappeared, and it’s feared they’ve been kidnapped by militants. The extremists also shelled the city of Qaraqosh, where CNEWA supports an orphanage. And in ISIS-held areas, Christians unable to flee are now forbidden to display crosses and other religious symbols.
As for the thousands of families who’ve escaped, they have no idea if their homes still exist. Many are elderly. The majority are women and children. All live in fear of what tomorrow may bring.
As the patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church has said, “We are losing our community.” He fears Christianity in Iraq will soon come “to an end.”
Pope Francis has urged us to pray for these victims of violence.
But they also need something else: your support.
At CNEWA, we’re committed to helping scores of nuns, priests and lay workers care for these displaced innocents — Christian and non-Christian alike. But I’m afraid their overwhelming situation is growing worse.
A simple donation, whatever you can give, will allow CNEWA
to help these terrified families.
Won’t you join us? With their world turned upside down, these families have never needed you more. So please help them.
Thank you and God bless you.