Traditionally Christian towns dotting the Nineveh Plains of the north were emptied as Christians — as well as many Muslims — fled the Islamic State group’s onslaught in 2014. Speaking to a packed Church of the Immaculate Conception, Francis said “forgiveness” is a key word for Christians. For the Vatican, the continued presence of Christians in Iraq is vital to keeping alive faith communities that have existed here since the time of Christ. Mosul, Iraq’s second largest city, became IS’s bureaucratic and financial backbone. Gutayba Aagha, the Muslim head of the Independent Social and Cultural Council for the Families of Mosul, encouraged other Christians to return.

Source: Indian Express March 07, 2021 14:48 UTC