In Communion
The word communion has a few meanings but the most common definition besides Holy Communion is “an act or instance of sharing.” It’s what the Chaldean News does on a monthly basis in print and on a daily basis through social media. We share — stories of triumph and hardship, profiles of people who have created a legacy or are emerging as leaders, love and loss, family recipes and family businesses. We share because that’s what people do to be “in communion.”
The stories we share are part of what makes the Chaldean community unique. Beginning in November we will begin sharing content with our partners at The Michigan Chronicle. For the next 6 months, we will share editorial content and host events that will unite our two communities in a way they haven’t been paired previously. If it’s not obvious to all by now, we need to learn to combine our strengths and celebrate our differences in order to become stronger — as a region, as a state, and as a nation. Our hope is to become a collaboration model for others to use.
Our cover this month is about a place of reverence, The Cross in the Woods. It’s a simple design and the beauty is displayed in the faces of the people that come to worship. It’s amazing how something so deeply personal can be shared among so many, in communion with Mary, Jesus, and the saints.
Speaking of saints, All Saints Day is around the corner, on November 1. It was fun to look into the meaning and history of the holiday and discover that it has its roots in Celtic lore and Christian martyrology, and even has links to a Roman pantheon!
Leaves are falling all around, and the air is crisp with the scent of autumn harvest. Marking the transition from summer to winter, fall means shorter days and cooler temperatures— at least in the states. As Dr. Miri tell us in Storms Without Borders, the weather in Iraq is quite a bit warmer.
Features this month include our continuing photo essay of the homeland, with Tesqopa in the frame. This is an ancient village that has seen every kind of enemy from Mongol hordes to ISIS and has survived, giving refuge for Christians in Iraq.
We also provide you with some legal updates, information on the Michigan political race in the 20th district, and a new idea for fall fun with the family. Our Economics & Enterprise is all about Mirna Ashaka, a young person who’s fulfilling her dream of being a business owner. We also profile Akram Kareem, an extraordinary individual who was honored at the Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF) Gala in September.
In Noteworthy, we shine the light on two people who are making a difference by being active on boards and commissions, and the Culture & History section spotlights our Mandean cousins. It can be so rewarding to take a look at other cultures and learn something new. Just ask Michael Palin, who hosts a travel documentary called Into Iraq and penned a book with the same title. Of course, he was most impressed with the people of Iraq and their resiliency.
Other coverage includes the Breakfast of Nations, hosted by the CCF, and the Chaldean American Chamber’s Industry Outlook on economic development. The frosting on the cake is From the Archives, a new photo section where we share pictures of yesteryear. Please raid your closets and attics to contribute to this ongoing series!
All the best,
Sarah Kittle
Editor in Chief