The diocese of Ahmadiya hosts a meeting of some 300 young people who came together to reflect upon mission’s meaning in today’s Iraq and on the ways to meet the challenges that terrorism and sectarian violence represent for the local Church, all without losing hope.

Ahmadiya (AsiaNews) – Some 300 young people from ten different villages in Iraqi Kurdistan met last Saturday in Ahmadiya with the bishop and other priests from the diocese. Together they reflected upon “the meaning of the Church’s mission in the world and in today’s Iraq, a country suffering from terrorism and sectarian violence. At the end they went home full of joy and hope,” said Mgr Rabban al-Qas, Chaldean bishop of Ahmadiya, who spoke to AsiaNews.

“A day full of emotions,” as the prelate put it; the meeting took place in the ancient church of Sultana Mahadokht, built in 7th century AD. The gathering was organised for the purpose of “deepening the mystery of the Catholic Church and its mission to the world in order to help young people with the challenges Christians face in Iraq.”

Fr Najib Mosa focused an important need, namely to remember always that “the person of Christ is the basis of the Church and that He is the Good News.”

“Young people have felt the voice of the Church, Christ’s bride, which calls upon them to bring His love to the Islamic world in which they live. With their witness these kids can bring hope to their own families who fled to Kurdistan from various parts of the country,” said Mgr al-Qas.

At the end of the meeting the bishop celebrated mass. The service was followed by songs and group games.

Finally, those present decided to meet again on a regular basis, four times a year.

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