Ten years have passed since the shadow of the so-called Islamic State cast a dark cloud over the city of Mosul, forcing Christian families to flee their homes in fear. Today, only a small number of these families have returned to reclaim their lives in a city still bearing the scars of violence and religious extremism.
The Chaldean Archbishop of Mosul, Amel Shimon Nona, revealed that the majority of the 1,200 Christian families who once called Mosul their home were forced to seek refuge elsewhere as IS militants ravaged the city. Prying their homes away from them and subjecting them to unimaginable horrors, many felt they had no choice but to leave.
Amidst the chaos, the Christian community found solace in neighboring villages like Kramles and Tilkif, where they sought shelter from the storm that threatened to tear their lives apart.
Reflecting on the dark days of the IS occupation, Archbishop Nona recounted the heartbreaking story of his church, dedicated to the Holy Spirit, being desecrated by marauding thieves as the city fell into the hands of extremists. It was only through the intervention of compassionate Muslim neighbors that the church was spared further devastation.
The trauma inflicted by IS marked a turning point for the Christians of Mosul, with many choosing to never return to a city tainted by the memories of their suffering. The exodus continued as IS sought to eradicate any trace of Christianity, even going as far as expelling the elderly from their homes for refusing to renounce their faith.
While Mosul has since been liberated from the grip of IS, the scars of the past continue to loom large, dissuading many from contemplating a return to a city that has been forever changed. The Chaldean Bishop of Alqosh, Paul Thabit Mekko, expressed doubt that the majority of displaced Christians would ever find the courage to call Mosul home once more, citing the deep psychological wounds inflicted during their time of exile.
The road back to Mosul may be paved with uncertainty, but for now, the displaced Christian community finds solace in the safety of Ankawa, a district in Erbil known for its vibrant Christian population. Here, amidst familiar faces and a sense of security, they forge a new chapter in their lives, one that holds the promise of hope and healing.
As Mosul grapples with its turbulent past and uncertain future, the resilient spirit of its people serves as a testament to the enduring power of faith and community in the face of adversity.
(Source: Fides News Agency)
