The New Chaldean Patriarch, His Beatitude Amel Shamon Nona, will be officially installed on 29 May at St Joseph’s Cathedral in Baghdad. Having left for Australia in 2015 after his entire flock was exiled during the rise of the Islamic State, he returns to Iraq one decade later to lead the Chaldean Catholic Church. In an interview with Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), he shared his perspective on his transition from the frontlines of persecution to the challenges of the global diaspora.
Mosul’s impact and the vision of the New Chaldean Patriarch
Serving as Bishop of Mosul during a period of constant danger and killings left a deep mark on the prelado. This difficult time taught him that unshakable belief is the true anchor for those who have suffered immensely.
“That is the hope I carry into this new mission. To suffer for being a faithful believer certainly deepens your way of looking at life”.
Bridging the gap: A mission for the New Chaldean Patriarch
A major challenge for the New Chaldean Patriarch is connecting the home of the Church in Iraq with the majority of the community now living abroad. His goal is to build a bridge for new generations searching for their identity and faith. His chosen motto, «Do not be afraid, just believe,» is taken from Mark 5.
“We may have reasons to be afraid, but if we live our faith as the Lord wants, we can live with those fears while remaining full of faith. (…) we move forward not because the danger is gone, but because our belief is stronger”.
International call and future prospects
The New Chaldean Patriarch urges the international community to show respect for the peoples and sovereignty of the Middle East to ensure a future of peace. He advises young people that regardless of their location, their mission remains the same: to practice their faith through their actions.
Looking ahead, the patriarch emphasized that the best foundation for the people to flourish is education and formation.
“I want to thank ACN from the bottom of my heart. (…) You helped us keep our community alive. For this new mission, I rely on your support”.
