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.

In 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.

Protocol. 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.

Each 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.

At 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.

Throughout 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.

Ask 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.