This article is from fr. Brian, our Provincial Promoter of the Laity. He states it is “A small light of hope in Iraq.” …and we continue to pray for our brothers an sisters in Iraq and the region.

The world is wondering, is worried and talks about Iraq, the Mesopotamia of the past, because, quite simply, the country is not doing well. A wave of ongoing violence invades the country without mercy. Also, a terrible confessional revenge takes its place in tearing the fabric off the Iraqi people. Children are terrified, families are leaving the country because disorder is established and has made its home in Iraq. In this unspeakable chaotic situation, a young Iraqi Dominican presented himself on the 19th of June 2015, to receive diaconal ordination in Baghdad. What madness! What a challenge! We are saying, is it not the risk of love according to the example of Christ? Is this not the unconditional yes to serve the word, liturgy and charity? Yes, by this commitment to the free service of the people, a path of healing will open to demonstrate the love of God on earth. It is a drop of hope that comes to water our life at this moment. A country destabilized by war, a hurt and persecuted church celebrates an ordination in the heart of the capital Baghdad! It really is a rare and special event! In addition, the Latin Cathedral was full of faithful. The presence of the lay Dominican family, sisters and brothers, has been remarkable, this presence has given a sign of solidarity and extraordinary fraternal love. This Mass of diaconal ordination has given us the chance to live a deep and joyful spiritual moment.

– See more at: op.org