Carmen Álvarez Cuadrado y Santiago Taboada Castillo
Erbil is the fourth largest city in Iraq and capital of Iraqi Kurdistan. This area has been greatly affected by the war in Iran.
One of the most recent attacks occurred in March, when a drone attack damaged buildings belonging to the Church in Ankawa. According to Aid to the Church in Need, this district was home to some 60,000 Caldean Catholics in 2021.
Despite the war and the steady exodus of Christians from the Middle East, many choose to stay. And among the younger generation, hope endures.
Every year the Archdiocese of Erbil hosts the Ankawa Youth Gathering, where young people from all over Iraq come together to share their experiences.
This years event, however, featured a very special guest: Pope Leo XIV. For the very first time, a pope sent them a message of encouragement.
POPE LEO XIV
You are called to radiate this light in a situation that has often been marked by war and instability.
You must be Christ’s light in the midst of a darkness that can, at times, seem overwhelming. Do not be afraid. And do not think that you are alone in this task. I am with you; the Church is with you. Place your trust in Jesus; listen to him in prayer and through the guidance of others, and allow him to lead you.
The Ankawa Youth Gathering began in 2013 with the goal of bringing together young Catholics from different parishes across the country to reflect on and share the role of faith within the Chaldean Church.
Erbil is no stranger to papal visits, as Pope Francis visited the city in March of 2021, a trip that marked a turning point for the Church in Iraq.
