The roots of the Chaldean American community in Michigan stretch back nearly a century, to a small but determined group of Iraqi immigrants who gathered in April 1943 at the Danish Hall of Detroit. Their mission: to create a better life for their families and preserve their culture in a new land.
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On May 2, 2025, a special ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to mark a major milestone in our community’s story. The Chaldean Community Foundation officially unveiled its new campus in West Bloomfield—known as CCF West—a space that builds on the Foundation’s mission with a renewed focus on cultural preservation and community growth.
Read MoreIn the heart of West Bloomfield, a new culinary space is bridging generations, cultures, and flavors. Nana Bernadette’s Kitchen, a demonstration kitchen at the Chaldean Community Foundation West, stands as a tribute to the late Bernadette Sarafa, mother of Anmar and Haithem Sarafa, prominent community leaders and philanthropists.
Read MoreProtocol. That became our catchphrase during our trip to Iraq in the fall of 2023—sometimes used in jest, sometimes in earnest. In Iraq, “protocol” carries far more weight than the relatively informal customs of the more egalitarian West. There, it’s a profession. Every ministry, embassy, and consulate general office has a full department of protocol staff.
Read MoreEach June, Immigrant Heritage Month offers a time to recognize and celebrate the millions of immigrants who have shaped—and continue to enrich—the American story. It’s a moment to honor the diverse cultures, backgrounds, and journeys that define the soul of the United States.
Read MoreThis issue of Chaldean News is especially meaningful as it captures a powerful moment of growth and celebration. With the opening of the Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF) West, we are quite literally opening the doors to a new chapter in the story—one that reflects both the richness of Chaldean heritage and the promise of its future.
Read MoreAs the stock market continues its boisterous ride and federal tariff policy shifts by the week, businesses across Michigan—from multinational automakers to family-owned storefronts—are scrambling to adjust. A recent wave of heavy tariffs, particularly on imports from Canada, Mexico and China, has been announced, only to be partially walked back following sharp drops in stock indexes.
Read MoreAt first glance, Justin Odisho might look like just another YouTube creator—but a closer look reveals a self-made digital educator, entrepreneur, and pioneer in the creative tech space. With more than 1.08 million YouTube subscribers and over 100 million total views, Odisho has spent over a decade turning passion into profession—teaching people how to master photo and video editing software.
Read MoreThroughout the Chaldean Diocese, our youth are constantly being called to live out their faith and embrace it. As someone who grew up attending Chaldean youth groups and is now blessed to lead one, Journey to Sainthood, I have become a witness of the child-like boldness and confidence that our youth bring on their walk with Christ. Our youth approach their faith with a genuine hunger for growth in their spiritual lives. They are a reminder of the hope that continues to flourish within our Church and community.
Read MoreLike clockwork, every Easter season like the one we just celebrated, Christian communities around the world are reminded of the ultimate sacrifice Jesus Christ made to absolve humanity of its sins. This remembrance lives on through traditions that stretch across centuries: fasting through Lent, folding palm crosses on Palm Sunday, observing the somber rituals of Good Friday, and rejoicing in Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday.
Read MoreAsk most mothers what they really want for Mother’s Day, and chances are you’ll hear answers like, “quality family time,” “a night out,” or even just “some peace and quiet.” After years—decades, even—of preparing daily meals for my children, my answer to the “favorite meal” question has become wonderfully simple: “Whatever someone else has cooked.” There’s something deeply refreshing about being cared for when you’re usually the one doing the caring.
Read MoreAs we turn the page into a new season, this issue celebrates the vibrant intersections of faith, culture, creativity, and community that continue to shape the Chaldean-American experience. We begin with a journey through time and tradition in Jacob Bacall’s compelling new book, which chronicles the history of the Chaldean Catholic Church in the U.S. His work not only documents a sacred legacy but also honors the resilience and faith of a community rooted deeply in spiritual identity.
Read MoreOn March 15, the Chaldean Community Foundation hosted its Second Annual National Civics Bee® local competition. The National Civics Bee® is an annual, nonpartisan competition designed to inspire young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Students in grades 6-8 entered by submitting an essay showcasing their civic knowledge.
Read MoreAs we celebrate this season of Easter, we are reminded of the triumph of life over death, hope over despair, and light over darkness. This issue highlights the work of Pope Francis, who recently faced a health scare that led to his hospitalization. As of the date of publication, the Holy Father is back at the Vatican, where he belongs. His resilience reminds us of the importance of faith, prayer, and perseverance in times of trial.
Read MoreIf you meet my brother Joey, you won’t forget him. He’ll introduce himself, ask your name, and from that moment on, he’ll remember you. He’s not just friendly—he’s genuinely interested in people. He wants to know who you are, what you like, and how your day is going. And he wants to be your friend.
Read MoreThe Office of Life is a Pro-Life ministry dedicated to upholding the dignity and value of every human life. Central to this mission is a strong focus on supporting individuals with special needs and their families, ensuring they feel embraced and valued within the community. The ministry’s Special Needs Committee works to promote awareness and acceptance, celebrating the inherent beauty and worth of every life, regardless of ability.
Read MoreThe early 1900s marked the “Progressive Era” in the United States, a period known for welcoming more than 15 million immigrants over 15 years. These newcomers came from around the world, with a significant portion hailing from non-English-speaking European countries. Among them were some of the earliest Chaldean immigrants, arriving during this time—or, in the case of Zia Atala, even a bit earlier.
Read MoreRon Acho doesn’t really see himself as a businessman. Had he achieved his dream as a young man, he’d be heading a large grocery franchise. “I wanted to be president of A&P,” he says, only half-jokingly. Ron’s journey to the courtroom began decades earlier, when he shared a house with, among others, Mike George’s mom, and the Chaldean community in Detroit numbered only in the hundreds.
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During our diplomatic visit to Iraq, led by the president of the Chaldean Chamber of Commerce and Chaldean Foundation, Mr. Martin Manna, I made a personal decision—I would not leave Baghdad without visiting my mother’s gravesite. On February 24, our final day in Baghdad, I excused myself after our last scheduled meeting at around 4 o’clock and visited the Christian cemetery near Sahat al-Tayran, just behind the famous Freedom Monument (Nasib Al-Hurriya) in the heart of the city.
Read MoreThe saying “home is where the heart is” rings true for many, but what happens when rising housing prices make owning or renting a home unattainable? The recovery from the 2008 economic crisis was slow in Michigan, with metro Detroit facing challenges such as economic instability and population loss. In the early 2000s, the region began to see a gradual rebound.
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