Chaldean Patriarch encourages pre-Lenten fast for peace, security in Middle East

January 12, 2016

Chaldean Catholic Patriarch Louis Raphael I Sako has encouraged the faithful to observe a traditional fast, known as the "fast of Nineveh," for the cause of peace in the Middle East, the Fides news service reports.

In the "fast of Nineveh," traditionally observed by the Chaldean faithful before Lent, no food or drink is taken between midnight and noon for three consecutive days. The fast is named for the 3-day fast undertaken by Jonah before he preached to the people of Nineveh. 

The Chaldean Patriarch reminded the faithful how Jonah's warning, and the repentance of the people of Nineveh, saved the ancient city from destruction. He suggested the traditional fast as a means of seekign God's help to end to end the "deadly conflict" that has stricken Iraq. 

 

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Further information:

• The Chaldean Patriarch: we offer the "fast of Nineveh" (Fides)