As emigration continues, Baghdad’s Christian population falls

December 22, 2014

Fearing the Islamic State and hoping for better economic prospects, numerous Christians are leaving Baghdad and emigrating to Western and other Middle Eastern nations.

In the past year, attendance has fallen from nearly 400 to 75 at one Baghdad church, a Chaldean Catholic priest told The Washington Post.

“If it stays this way we will shrink to nothing,” said Father Miyassir al-Mokhlasee. “We believe that God wants us here for diversity in the region. Unfortunately, people are afraid of the future, and they are leaving … Even my [brother] is leaving.”

 

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Further information:

• As Christmas approaches, Baghdad Christians lament empty pews (Washington Post)