Iraqi prelate rebukes 'Christian' paramilitary groups for attacks on civilians

June 16, 2016

Chaldean Catholic Patriarch Louis Raphael Sako of Baghdad has denounced militia groups that have attacked refugees fleeing from the Islamic State.

The Iraqi prelate said that although the paramilitary groups carry crosses and other Christian symbols, they cannot be considered representatives of Christianity. On the contrary, he said, their action "foments clashes related to religion, spirals of revenge, and more suffering." 

The Chaldean Patriarch has often cautioned Christians against joining militia groups, noting that their leaders have mixed political motives and their attempt to identify with the Church makes life more dangerous for the faithful in Iraq.  

 

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Further information:

• Militants attack civilians fleeing, displaying Christian symbols. Chaldean Patriarch: they have nothing to do with Christianity (Fides)