Courage and Grace

Paul Jonna, Acting Editor in Chief

For those of us watching Pope Francis in Iraq this month, it felt like an overwhelming validation of our faith. The Pope’s historic visit to Iraq was more than a gesture, even more than a pilgrimage – it was a coming home. His jubilant entrance into Baghdad and the welcome he received reminds us that Christianity has been in Iraq from its earliest times. The Acts of the Apostles state that its origins go back to the preaching of St. Thomas, one of the original twelve disciples.

It is a place of historic and biblical importance. Not only was the visit historic, it was incredibly brave. In a world where two and a half million have succumbed to COVID-19 and an area where there has been ongoing conflict for decades and a rocket attack only days before, Pope Francis triumphantly greeted the crowds and celebrated Mass. Many doubted the visit would happen. The courage required was enormous, but the Pope’s faith was unshaken.

For Chaldeans and Iraqi Christians the world over, it meant so much that he was willing to take the risk. It acknowledged the faith and history as well as the persecution of Catholics and other minority religions. It teaches the best lesson in life – regardless of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation – we all need to coexist and support each other on our walk.

The parties, Zeffa music, and the dancing were a spontaneous celebration that all present were united in the jubilation. It clearly showed the resiliency of the Iraqi people, and hopefully, will inspire our youth to become more involved in the faith and in the church. This month’s edition spotlights a successful start-up youth group at Mart Miriam in Chicago as well as the story of Patrick Kakos, a young man who is a big part of the parish at St. Thomas Chaldean Church.

Our internet safety story reminds us that we have to be vigilant, even in our own homes, from predators and thieves that would take our money, our information, our privacy, and even our identities. The Chaldean Community Foundation is working with the FBI to help parents learn what to look for and protect themselves and their children from harm.

In the political arena, we learn that district lines are being redrawn and that we actually have an opportunity to take part in that process. People from our community are becoming more and more active in positions of importance, and it is vital that we are represented on all levels.

COVID-19 vaccinations are available and we tell you more about them; what they are, how they are working, and where to find them. It is so very important at this time to take your health into your own hands and be proactive. Not only get the vaccine but get screened for diseases to which you are susceptible. If you have any medical issue, ignoring it will only make it worse – whether it’s cancer or depression.

The isolation we have experienced for the last 12 months has affected us all. Loss of muscle tone is a problem for many people who need to go to the gym to stay fit. Some exercises just aren’t possible without equipment or space. The long months since businesses were freely open have taken their toll.

Just how closely physical and mental health are tied together has been tested and we have resoundingly found that each depends upon the other. We look forward to the re-engagement of both physical and mental activity.

And finally, we are longing for a getaway-from-it-all package, one that sends us straight to summer and surrounds us with lapping waves and waving palm trees - far from Michigan, its mercurial weather, and winter roads. Is that feasible or is it just a dream? Read about it in Family Time, when we ask, “Is it safe to fly?”

Speaking of asking, we try to ask you a relevant question each month and showcase the answers in the column Chaldean on the Street (COS.) Getting answers from Chaldeans “on the street” has been difficult, and we turned to social media to hear from you. Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook (if you’re not already) and assist us in the process. You can even help shape our questions each month. We love to hear from you, our readers. Don’t be shy, we’re all family! 

With gratitude,
Paul Jonna
Acting Editor in Chief