Archbishop Kassab talks about the ceremony that took place on the last day of the Year of the Eucharist. These are moments that give the faithful great confidence in the future, also in light of the upcoming elections and Christmas.

Basra (AsiaNews) – The ordination of ten Chaldean Catholics as deacons in Basra last Sunday has given believers hope in the future, this according to Mgr Djibrail Kassab, Archbishop of Basra, who spoke to AsiaNews about his congregation's expectations vis-à-vis the upcoming elections and Christmas. 

Last Sunday, the Archbishop celebrated the closing mass of the Year of the Eucharist. "Two days ago," the prelate said, "we celebrate the Feast of the Annunciation according to the Chaldean liturgy." Ten new deacons were ordained on this occasion.

"The church was full. We were about 350," he noted. "We could read happiness on the faces of the faithful and the new deacons."

"These are always moments of great joy," he added.

Things are calm in Basra at present, but residents are worried about the future.

"We shall pray for peace and security on this Christmas as well. People are looking forward to the December 15 elections as an opportunity for having confidence in the future," he explained.

Parishes in the diocese are preparing for Christmas ceremonies and carols.

"We expect celebrations will take place regularly," the Archbishop said.

"The mood amongst Catholics and all the people of Basra is positive," Archbishop Kassab concluded. "There is a sense things are improving".

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