A Season of Sacrifice

The Lenten season is a time for fasting, prayer and reflection. Easter may be a time of renewal and rebirth, but Lent is all about sacrifice. We give up that which we desire, not for immediate reward or gain but for personal growth, the betterment of others, and a deeper relationship with God.

This issue is filled with people who have made sacrifices for the greater good. Pope Francis is a man who has dedicated his entire life to service, not only in the Catholic Church but as a world peacemaker. His historic meeting with Iraqi leaders to help shape the future of Iraq cannot be overemphasized. His faith and courage in making so public a journey to be an example and light for the world calls for a sacrifice beyond the already incredible sacrifice a life of service such as his requires. It also requires a great faith.

Sometimes there is a reward for the sacrifice, but it is delayed and comes only after a long period of continued effort. Our cover story is about the outstanding community members who have answered the call of civic duty and said, “Yes” to appointments at the state level. We all know that public service demands the sacrifice of a private life, among many other things. The hard work and dedication that is needed to ascend to that level in the civil sector means that worthy appointees have developed a solid reputation for trustworthiness and professionalism.

Speaking of professionalism, I want to thank Vanessa Denha-Garmo for her very personal story of love and loss, Remembering Baba. Vanessa’s grandfather was a great man in the community, a shamasha, one who not only preserved and transcribed hymns and books for the Church, but authored them as well. His artistic penmanship has graced many Chaldean homes and the world is richer for his having been in it.

Of course, as an immigrant community, immigration reform is always top of mind. The people that gave up everything to seek asylum in a new country know a thing or two about sacrifice. I would bet they also know about affecting change. The new presidential administration has some updates to their immigration policy we’ll share with you.

In Why We Fast, Haley Jonna takes us through the reasons why we as Christians chose to refrain from eating for a time and instead pray and reflect. God calls for us to return to Him in this season and accompany Jesus’ suffering here and now in the crucified people of our world.

With God’s grace, may we live Lent fully and move with transformed hearts into the abundant life of Easter morning.

With Gratitude,

Paul Jonna

Acting Editor in Chief

Paul Jonna, Acting Editor in Chief