Recent Stories
A local investment group led by Saber Ammori, Kevin Denha, and Andrew Dickow has acquired Buddy’s Pizza from private equity firm CapitalSpring, though the purchase price was not disclosed. The new owners—who say the brand holds personal significance—plan to strengthen customer experience, improve product quality, and expand Buddy’s presence nationally, particularly in the frozen pizza market. The deal, financed by First Merchants Bank with legal support from Varnum and Taft, comes after years of limited expansion outside metro Detroit and several recent store closures in west Michigan. Founded in 1946 and credited with creating Detroit-style pizza, Buddy’s remains a longstanding staple with multiple locations across Michigan.
Detroit’s creative pulse is getting a bold new signature — and it’s coming from a Chaldean American artist making her mark on one of the city’s biggest stages. Juliana Rabban, known professionally as Just By Juliana, has landed a major collaboration with Big Sean and the Detroit Pistons, placing her work at the center of a high-profile celebration of Detroit culture.
Authorities in southeastern Turkey have apprehended the main suspect in a six-year-old case involving the murder of Şmuni Diril and the disappearance of her husband, Hurmuz Diril, a Chaldean couple who had returned to their ancestral village of Mehri in Şırnak Province in 2020. The couple vanished from their home in January 2020, prompting extensive searches by local authorities and community members. Weeks later, Şmuni’s body was discovered near the Hezil River, but Hurmuz has never been found, leaving his fate uncertain.
Louis Raphaël I Sako warned that escalating violence between Iran and its adversaries risks dragging Iraq into a wider regional conflict, stressing that war will only deepen instability in the Middle East. Speaking to Vatican News amid recent Iranian strikes across Iraq following Israeli-American attacks on Iran, the patriarch said he is “deeply concerned” about where the conflict could lead, especially for a country that has already endured decades of violence and upheaval.
Iran has launched missile and drone strikes against U.S. military assets across the Gulf following a major joint attack on Iran by the United States and Israel. According to Iranian officials and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, American and Israeli targets throughout the region are now considered legitimate targets, and operations will continue until what Tehran calls “aggression” ends.
The 2026 Bishop’s Dinner for the Chaldean Diocese of St. Thomas the Apostle took place Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at Larsa Palace in Warren, Michigan. Hosted by Bishop Francis Kalabat, the annual benefit supports the bishop’s office and provides vital funding for the diocese’s seminarians, priests and parishes.
In a quiet corner of the Chaldean Community Foundation in West Bloomfield (CCF West), something extraordinary is unfolding. The Mar Ibrahim Library is not simply housing books. It is awakening memory. It is stirring questions. It is forming students. And for the first time, it is opening the history of the Church of the East to the wider community in a structured, academic course once reserved primarily for seminarians.
This month’s issue explores a question that sits at the heart of every community story we tell: How do we carry the Chaldean story forward? Sometimes that question appears in big conversations, like immigration, where policies and legal definitions can shape real lives in lasting ways. When we talk about whether a misdemeanor should be grounds for removal, we are not just debating law. We are talking about families, second chances, and what fairness looks like in practice.
“What part of illegal do you not understand?” That is a standard line I have heard from critics of legalization whenever undocumented immigrants are discussed. For some, that sentence seems to settle the matter — a complex immigration debate reduced to a single word, with no need for further discussion.
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On February 12, Chaldean Community Foundation West was visited by Saadi Saihood and a delegation from the American University of Iraq-Baghdad to explore the Foundation’s newest location in West Bloomfield. Mr. Saihood is the founder of the Raban Al-Safina Group, one of Iraq’s largest private industrial and engineering conglomerates, and the founder of the American University in Baghdad, the country’s largest private university.
On February 3, the Mar Ibrahim Library officially opened to the public, located inside CCF West at 2075 Walnut Lake Road in West Bloomfield. Operated by the Chaldean Catholic Diocese, the Mar Ibrahim Library will be open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8am - 4pm for study.
Crain’s Business Detroit’s Best of Detroit contest celebrates the people, businesses, and organizations making a meaningful impact across the region. The Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF) has been nominated again this year, a testament to its continued commitment to serving individuals and families throughout metro Detroit.
Javon David, a shareholder at Butzel, was recognized among Crain’s Detroit Business’ Notable Women in Law for her work across commercial litigation, media and entertainment law, and products liability, where she advises businesses on complex matters ranging from contract disputes and shareholder oppression to trade secrets, real estate and automotive supplier issues.
Rudy’s Prime Steakhouse in downtown Clarkston has earned Hour Detroit’s top honor — and it’s easy to see why. Housed inside the beautifully restored 1915 former Rudy’s Market, the 130-seat steakhouse blends historic charm with modern quiet luxury.
After the sudden loss of her father, Dr. Raad Jajo, a psychiatrist known for his compassionate approach, Shahad Jajo Jonna, PA-C, founded Jajo Psychiatry in 2021. The practice reflects her father’s emphasis on empathy, trust, and individualized care, serving patients across Michigan with a focus on mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
The Chaldean Hockey League hosted its annual Charity Night on Feb. 15 at Orchard Lake St. Mary’s Ice Arena, uniting players, families, and supporters for an evening that blended spirited competition with community generosity. The event successfully raised $25,000 for the Chaldean Community Foundation, bolstering the foundation’s broad mission to support advocacy, acculturation, community development, and cultural preservation within the Chaldean and greater Michigan community.
مع اقتراب الذكرى السنوية الأولى لتوليه منصب رئيس أساقفة ديترويت، يتكلم رئيس الأساقفة إدوارد وايزنبرغر في هذه المقابلة عن عامٍ اتسم بمبادرات التعاون وبوادر الأمل الملموسة. فلقد قَدِم نيافته من مدينة (توسان- ولاية اريزونا) ليقود إحدى أعرق وأكثر الأبرشيات تعقيدًا في البلاد، وليجد نفسه في مدينةٍ شعارها نفسه يَعد بالقيامة. وفي عامه الأول، لم يلمس فقط صمود ديترويت، بل لاحظ أيضًا أمرًا فاجاءه كثيراً: كنائس نابضة
تشهد الولايات المتحدة وأوروبا ودول أخرى تغيرًا ديموغرافيًا كبيرًا، حيث تتحول جماعات المهاجرين التي كانت تُعتبر أقليات إلى أغلبيات، ومن بين هذه الجماعات، نجد مجتمعات سريعة النمو من آسيا وشمال أفريقيا وامريكا الجنوبية.
As he approaches his first anniversary as Archbishop of Detroit, Archbishop Edward Weisenberger reflects on a year marked by collaboration and visible signs of hope. Arriving from Tucson to lead one of the nation’s most historic and complex archdioceses, he stepped into a city whose very motto promises resurrection.
For the second time in Chaldean Community Foundation West Bloomfield’s relatively short history, a group of (mostly) men met in Nana Bernadette Sarafa’s Kitchen to cook up some Chaldean cuisine. On the menu for this cold February day in Michigan? Paqota (also spelled pakutta, pukota, or pikota), a traditional Chaldean dish of turmeric barley with beef.
As the only girl with three older, athletic brothers, Lily Alattar had no choice but to like sports. The family was either at a game or watching one on TV. But while her brothers showcased their athleticism on the field, Lily’s talents emerged in a different way—through her vocal cords.
On any given morning, their voices can be heard across metro Detroit’s airwaves, confident, quick-witted and unmistakably at home in the fast-paced world of iHeart Radio and Mojo in the Morning. But beyond the microphones and studio lights, they are also daughters of the Chaldean community, shaped by family expectations and a deep sense of identity.
For many in the Chaldean community, Manresa Retreat Center is more than just a peaceful property tucked away in Bloomfield Hills—it is a spiritual refuge, a place of renewal, and, for some, a sacred tradition passed from one generation to the next.
For Rima and Rana Goro, a portrait does not begin with charcoal. It begins with a story someone is afraid to lose. Identical twins and Chaldean Catholics, the sisters grew up learning how quickly life can change and how deeply people hold onto the ones they love. Born in Iraq, their early years were shaped by uncertainty before their family moved through Lebanon and eventually settled in Michigan. Those experiences stayed with them. They learned early that memory is fragile and that love often outlives photographs.
After years spent building his SubSummit conference, Chris George and his partners, John Hajji and Paul Chambers, exited the business earlier this year in an eight-figure acquisition by Nineteen Group. The trio launched SubSummit in 2016 as an annual weekend conference geared toward subscription-based businesses. It created a space where founders, operators, and innovators could connect, exchange ideas, and push the industry forward together.
Pierce Shaya’s tennis career has always been associated with unbelievable numbers. His career record playing for the Bloomfield Hills High School boys tennis team from 2021-24 was 103-2. He was 77-1 in singles matches and 26-1 in doubles matches. He was 16-0 in four trips to the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 state tournament, winning state championships at No. 3 singles, No. 1 doubles, No. 2 singles and No. 1 singles, respectively, from his freshman through senior seasons.
Iraqi Arabic, also known as Mesopotamian Arabic, is the everyday language of millions of Iraqis and Iraqi Americans. It is the language of family conversations, humor, storytelling, and daily life. While Modern Standard Arabic is used in formal settings, Iraqi Arabic is what people actually speak at home and in the community.
2025 Stories
Cousins Jonny Mansour and Julius Ballo each earned convincing victories Saturday night in Los Angeles, thrilling hometown fans while winning bouts on the same professional card. Mansour (5-0, 2 KOs) cruised to a six-round unanimous decision over Marc Antonio Juarez Rodriguez of Mexico (12-9-3) in a lightweight bout, winning every round on all scorecards. Mansour controlled the fight with a sharp jab, steady footwork and poise, even showboating late as the crowd cheered.
Long before the holiday music plays and the last gift is wrapped, a small army of volunteers gathers in a Macomb County space to sort, wrap, and organize presents. Each package is assembled with care so that a child in foster care will open something personal and know they are not forgotten. For nearly 20 years, that work has been centered around one woman and a simple promise: to make sure no child in foster care goes without at Christmas.
The history of doors in ancient civilizations—and especially in the Middle East—is remarkable. Gates and wooden doors have existed since the dawn of civilization. According to the Bible, King Solomon commissioned olive wood doors for his temple. Ancient Mesopotamians and Egyptians also used wooden doors in their homes and temples.
Dr. Crystal Kassab Jabiro successfully defended her dissertation titled “Ethnic Identity Development of Chaldean American Youth” at Indiana Wesleyan University on Friday, November 21, 2025.
Winner of over 50 international film awards and now streaming in 25 countries, Pomegranate by Weam Namou comes to the big screen at Emagine Theater in Royal Oak (200 North Main Street) on December 7 from 3pm to 6pm EST.
Jonathan Elias, Metro Detroit’s own “Pastry Guru,” recently returned to the national spotlight with a new appearance on Food Network’s Sweet Empire: Winter Wars. Competing among a select group of top dessert artists from across the country, Elias showcased his signature creativity, precision and larger-than-life pastry imagination in this high-stakes holiday competition.
Last month, guest chefs Samira Cholagh and May Denha guided participants through the art of making Kleecha, Kahi, and Maa’Kacha. Hands-on sessions offered more than just recipes, they fostered connections, cultural pride, and delicious memories. Each session invites you to team up with fellow food lovers, learn from talented Chaldean community members, and create authentic dishes in a welcoming, hands-on environment.
In partnership with MDHHS and Ageways Michigan, CCF West hosted a meaningful community dialogue with Chaldean seniors to help shape the Michigan Plan on Aging. Participants shared personal experiences about aging in Michigan, highlighting key needs around transportation, mobility, food access, and overall well-being. Tammy Lemmer from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) facilitated the discussion.
Last month, our B.E.A.M. Project participants attended nutrition classes at CCF West presented by Amy Safaoui, a Michigan State University Extension Community Instructor fluent in Arabic. Amy works closely with Arab and Chaldean communities across Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne Counties, helping families build lasting healthy habits.
The Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF) has partnered with the city of Sterling Heights for the 47th Annual Ken Stempowski Memorial Food Drive, providing food assistance to families in need this holiday season. Now through December 17, a donation bin will be available at the CCF (Sterling Heights location) to accept non-perishable food donations during office hours.
As we close out the year, this December issue invites us to pause, reflect, and reconnect—with our heritage, our families, and the communities that sustain us. The end of the year has a way of drawing us back to what matters most, and across these pages you’ll find a theme that carries through each story: the power of belonging, whether expressed through gratitude, service, shared history, or the simple joy of being together.
One of the great privileges of my work with the Iraqi Embassy over the years has been meeting and collaborating with remarkable Iraqi diplomats who have become brothers to me—as we call one another. Recently, Iraq’s Parliament approved a long-delayed slate of new ambassadors, and I was thrilled to see at least five of these colleagues elevated to the rank of ambassador.
In addressing this difficult subject, I must first make a clarification: I am not a theologian or an ethicist. I am a physician who has faced end-of-life issues many times over my 37-year career in pediatric oncology. This article is guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church—its Catechism and moral tradition—and by the Catholic Medical Association, of which I was a member. If I have made any errors, I welcome correction and comment.
The Chaldean Community Foundation (CCF) Iraq Mission has been closely monitoring the 2025 national parliamentary elections. With permanent staff in the Nineveh Plain and ongoing work and visits in the region, the CCF has established strong relationships with political leadership.
Every family has its own story, but some stand out because they’re built on quiet strength and shared purpose. For brothers Rami and Noor Yasi, their path in real estate and mortgage lending grew from early lessons that shaped them long before they entered the industry. What began as a simple desire to help others find stability has become a lifelong calling rooted in compassion and hard work.
Telleskuf (Tel Keppe) is a Chaldean name composed of two parts: Tella Zqeepa — Tella meaning “hill” and Zqeepa meaning “upright” or “cross.” The town’s origins date to the mid–second millennium B.C. Ancient manuscripts reference Telleskuf. In the archives of the Chaldean Diocese of Kirkuk, there is a manuscript written in 1582 by Abraham bin Bid‘a of Telleskuf.
The Chaldean Hockey League is a delicate balance of fierce competition, camaraderie and community. Games in the weekly league are hard-fought, and emotions run high—especially in the playoffs, when the coveted Telga Cup, the league’s version of the NHL’s Stanley Cup, is on the line.
There’s a reason our hearts feel different when the seasons change. It’s not weakness, it’s rhythm. As the days get darker, our bodies slow down too. The holidays can bring joy, but they can also overwhelm and bring stress. In Chaldean homes, this season is full of warmth and family, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Many people find themselves pushing to stay okay when what they really need is a little space to rest and reset.
DOHUK, Iraq (AP) — Members of Iraqi security forces and displaced people living in camps, including minority Yazidis, cast their ballots Sunday in early voting ahead of this week's parliamentary election in Iraq. The election, which will help determine whether Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani gets a second term, comes against the backdrop of fears of another conflict between Israel and Iran, and Iraq’s balancing act with Tehran and Washington.
Sterling Heights formally welcomed four new police officers and four firefighter/EMTs in October 2025. These officers were officially sworn in on October 7 by Police Chief Andrew Satterfield before the Sterling Heights City Council, marking the beginning of their careers serving the community. The four officers (as introduced) were Tyler Secluna, Miranda Diaowd, Adam Mays and Andy Cafritzas.
High school students Charlize Sitto and Elinor Jwaydah turned their personal experiences with asthma into an innovative awareness campaign for kids and families. What began as frustration and confusion over a misunderstood condition became Lung Quest—a colorful board game that teaches asthma management through play—and Breathe Boost, a digital platform and app offering kid-friendly tips, demos, and resources.
Nana Bernadette Sarafa’s Kitchen came alive with the aromas of Takhratha during the CCF West’s first cooking demonstration with Anmar Sarafa. In each class, students team up with fellow food lovers, learn from talented Chaldean community members, and create authentic dishes in a fun, hands-on environment.
Balance and Breathe classes for caregivers and adults 60 years and up takes place on Mondays and Fridays from 11:30am-12:15pm at CCF in Sterling Heights (3601 15 Mile Rd.) now through March 2026. Participants are encouraged to arrive by 11:00am.
CCF West hosted a special Movie Night for adults with special needs and their families — featuring Disney’s Hocus Pocus! Guests enjoyed a cozy theater experience with friends, snacks, and lots of laughter.
On October 10, the CCF in Sterling Heights welcomed Turning Point for an all-staff training focused on the cultural aspects of the Chaldean community. Turning Point empowers survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking through comprehensive services and resources while advocating for community action to end oppression and violence.
November calls us to pause — to gather with loved ones, share a meal, and give thanks for the blessings that surround us. For the Chaldean community, gratitude runs deeper than a single season. It is rooted in faith, family, and tradition — values that have carried the community through hardship and continue to illuminate its future. This month, we celebrate that spirit through stories that reflect generosity, perseverance, and pride in heritage.
“Art and architecture have long inspired one another, each shaping imagination, innovation, and cultural memory.” Visitors to the new Chaldean Community Foundation building in West Bloomfield, CCF West, are greeted by a vibrant collection of artworks celebrating faith, culture, and history. The walls feature depictions of the Freedom Monument, King Nebuchadnezzar II, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the Martyrs Wall, the Tree of Life, the Ishtar and Sennacherib Gates, and more. Many of these works were commissioned by the CCF and brought to life by artist Reni Stephan.
Old bridges and arches are living monuments that carry the weight of history. They are not merely structures to cross rivers and roads—they have facilitated communication, trade, and human interaction between friends and foes alike. Over time, they have shaped culture, geography, and historical memory. Few bridges illustrate this as vividly as Pira Dalal, or the Dalal Bridge, in Zakho, northern Iraq.
We may be thousands of miles away from our homeland, but the essence of who we are shouldn’t fade with distance. For Chaldean Americans including myself and many others – children of immigrants, either born or raised in a new world – our existence is defined by an ongoing struggle between embracing the culture we inhabit and holding on to our identity. We are fortunate to live in a country that has given us opportunity, safety, and freedom, and for that, we are endlessly grateful. Yet, amid the beauty of assimilation, we should always remember the subtle, strong reminders of our origins.
Long before a student steps into a courtroom or writes their first brief, there is a moment of realization that something within them is meant for this path. It might come from witnessing an injustice or from the understanding that words have power when used to defend what is right. Within the Chaldean community, that moment carries profound meaning. It grows from generations who built their lives on faith and perseverance, and who believed that success means nothing unless it uplifts others.
2024 Stories
Dr. Nathima Atchoo, born on December 28, 1931, in Iraq, passed away on February 5, 2025, receiving her heavenly reward.
استقبلت ورحبت مؤسسة الجالية الكلدانية بالرئيس السابق لمجلس النواب العراقي (محمد الحلبوسي) وعقيلته والوفد المرافق في المركز الثقافي الكلداني في نادي شانندوا يوم السبت 7 ديسمبر 2024
لطالما ارتبط تاريخ الكلدان في العراق بمعالمه المقدّسة وأديرته التي تحكي قصص الإيمان والصمود عبر الأجيال. ولكن في هذا المقال، ننطلق في رحلة مختلفة إلى قلب مؤسسة روحية عريقة: الرهبنة الأنطونية الهرمزدية الكلدانية. هذه الرهبنة، رغم استقلالها عن الهيكل الكنسي التقليدي، تُشكّل رافدًا مكمّلًا للرسالة الروحية والثقافية للكنيسة الكلدانية.
The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday November 20, 2024, passed a bipartisan resolution calling for greater support for the human rights and dignity of religious and ethnic minorities in Iraq, including the Chaldean community.
It’s often said, “It takes a village,” meaning that people rely on their communities to help raise and support their families. This principle extends to making a positive impact on the world around us. A common thread across cultures, religions, and communities is a commitment to charity and service.
At Saroki Architecture, father and son Victor and Alex embody the past and future of the field. For them, architecture is both an art form and a practical endeavor, merging technological skills with design and aesthetics.
On the ruins of an ancient mound and its surroundings lies the city of Tel Keppe, named after this very mound. Its history traces back to the several centuries before Christ, evidenced by artifacts excavated there, specifically on the site of the current cemetery.
Talat Karmo’s 42-year career—so far—aligns well with his authorship of 42 U.S. patents, mostly for General Motors and Ford Motor Company. Karmo holds a Ph.D. in polymer chemistry. Now 70 and twice retired, he has taken on a new challenge, demonstrating a reluctance to step away from the intellectual and emotional energy he finds in the workplace.
In a world often marked by division and misunderstanding, Matthew Howard, a seasoned communications professional and executive producer of Common Home TV, is on a mission to amplify the voices of those working for peace and justice.
Mesopotamia, often called the “birthplace of civilization,” was one of the earliest centers where the development of philosophy, religion, science, and technology helped humanity transition from prehistoric times into the modern era.
The 21st Annual Meeting and Board Election for the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce was held on Wednesday, November 13 at Shenandoah Country Club. Over 150 members came together to network and participate in the voting process.
Sister Therese Shikwana’s journey is a powerful testament to faith, resilience, and dedication to service. She has played a pivotal role in the Chaldean community and the Chaldean Catholic Diocese.
he Shaya brothers continued their unprecedented run at the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 boys tennis state tournament this season. Pierce Shaya, a senior at Bloomfield Hills High School, won his fourth flight state championship. His high school tennis career is over, but he’ll be playing for the University of Michigan men’s tennis team next season.
According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, 3 in 5 Americans report that the holidays negatively impact their mental health. Despite the celebratory spirit, family conflicts, financial strain, and loneliness can magnify the stress people who struggle with mental health experience during the holidays.
As we transition from autumn to winter, change is all around us — leaves are taking on new colors, temperatures are dropping, and the days are getting shorter. But you can also experience different seasons in various aspects of your life — including when you invest. What are the seasons of an investor’s life? And how should you respond to them?
Over the past two decades, CN’s December cover stories have captured the evolving cultural, religious, and social fabric of the Chaldean community, showcasing key moments, traditions, and achievements.
In recent local elections, Chaldean candidates have made significant strides, securing key positions and bringing attention to the importance of representation at the community level. These small victories highlight the critical need for diverse voices in local government, where decisions directly impact daily life.
Chaldean Community Foundation Board Chair Sylvester Sandiha has been recognized by Crain’s as a “Notable Nonprofit Board Leader” for his work with the CCF. Sandiha works to raise awareness of CCF’s impact on the community by bringing together community, faith and political leaders.
There’s a new kind of therapy in town. Located in the heart of West Bloomfield, Social Pediatric Therapy specializes in providing essential therapy services for children to support their communication and developmental needs.
Jonathan Elias returns yet again to the Food Network! Host Jeff Mauro leads the merry eight-episode competition series Holiday Wars, where nine teams of elite cake, sugar and cookie artists (including our favorite Pastry Guru) compete in over-the-top confectionary challenges inspired by the season.
The Chaldean Community Foundation hosted its first ever Early Voting site from October 26-November 3 for Sterling Heights and Utica residents. Within the nine days of early voting, the CCF saw 8,050 voters come through its doors. Many first-time voters came through the CCF as well, with great excitement around being able to participate in the voting process.
November was Family Caregiver Month in the state of Michigan, and a perfect opportunity to shed some insight into the programming offered through the CCF’s Breaking Barriers program. A half-hour program called “Real Possibilities” through AARP Michigan airing on ABC 53 in the mid-Michigan area is recognizing CCF’s C.H.A.I. (Caregiver Helping Aid Initiative) Project.
After attending six months of learning and connecting with area top leaders, cultivating leadership skills, and developing relationships, the Learn with a Leader program got together for the last time as a cohort. In collaboration with CCF and Wireless Vision, Learn with a Leader graduates were honored November 6 during their program graduation at Shenandoah Country Club.
The CCF’s H.E.A.L. Project participated in a revolutionary driver’s education program catered to those who are hearing-impaired. Thanks to the generous support from AAA The Auto Club Group, the program revolutionized driver education with a cutting-edge driving simulator.
December invites reflection on the year that has passed and anticipation for the year ahead. It’s a time to appreciate the commitment and creativity that drive us all—whether through the artists and innovators in our communities or those whose devotion to faith, family, and country shapes the world around us.
يأخذنا استكشاف جاذبية المجوهرات والأحجار الكريمة العتيقة في رحلة عبر الزمن، لنستكشف القصص والجمال الموجود داخل هذه الكنوز العتيقة إذ لعبت المجوهرات دوراً مهماً في الحضارات والمجتمع وتاريخه الطويل وتم العثور على العديد من الأحجار الكريمة وقطع المجوهرات الفريدة من نوعها بين كل الحضارات القديمة وفي جميع أنحاء العالم.
على أطلال تل أثري ومحيطه، تقع مدينة تلكيف التي تستمد اسمها من هذا التل. يعود تاريخها إلى قرون عديدة قبل الميلاد، بدليل القطع الأثرية التي وجدها المنقبون في ذلك التل، الذي هو المقبرة الحالية. اسمها في اللغة الكلدانية “تل كيبي”، ويقابلها “تل الحجارة” باللغة العربية. كانت تسمى “شبيتيان.
وتتميز اللهجة العراقية بأنها تحتوي على عدد كبير من المفردات والأساليب التي تميزها عن اللهجات الأخرى، فاللغة المستخدمة في وسائل الإعلام والعمل الرسمي هي أقرب إلى اللغة العربية الفصحى، ولكن اللهجات الشفهية الشائعة بين عامة الناس تختلف باختلاف المناطق ولا توجد لهجة محددة في مناطق العراق فمثلا" لهجة أهل البصرة لا تتشابه مع لهجة باقي مدن الجنوب وهي لهجة بني تميم وأهل ساحل الخليج والتي تمتاز بقلب الجيم إلى ياء.
2023 Stories
In a remarkable convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and linguistic passion, the enigmatic beauty of ancient languages and cultural identities is emerging from the shadows. For one individual, this fusion is more than an academic pursuit; it’s a personal odyssey fueled by a deep desire to reconnect with his roots and amplify the voices of silenced cultures.
Part I Few members of the Chaldean community in Detroit still survive and remember what the village was like in the early 1900s, when our pioneers made the brave and challenging journey to America. What drove them to accomplish such a feat? To understand the enormity of such a journey, it’s necessary to recall the reality of village life and its simplicity.
The culinary traditions of the Chaldean community are as rich and diverse as our ancient history. Originating from the cradle of civilization, Chaldean cuisine boasts a plethora of flavors that narrate our cultural heritage. As the Chaldeans found a new home in Detroit, Michigan, we brought along our cherished recipes, crafting a unique food narrative that melds ancient traditions with the modern-day food landscape of the Motor City.
To quote St. Pope John Paul II in 2000, “To adopt a child is a great work of love. When it is done, much is given, but much is also received. It is a true exchange of gifts…” When, during a crisis pregnancy, a decision is made to have the baby, a gift of life is given. When the birth mother decides to place the baby for adoption, that’s a gift of family.
As a 15-year-old Catholic girl who found herself “in the family way” in 1982, I didn’t have a whole lot of options. My parents enrolled me in counseling at Catholic Social Services in preparation to place my baby for adoption. It wasn’t what I wanted to do, but I was still in school and lacking resources to be independent, so I went along.
In the heart of the Nineveh Plain, nestled in the ancient town of Alqosh, a masterful craftsman weaves stories and tradition with every stitch. Meet Thamir Yousif Qoda, a man who has dedicated his life to the art of crafting traditional garments that hold the essence of Chaldean, Assyrian, Kurdish, Arab, and Yazidi cultures.
In Iraq, Christmas is a unique occasion for Christians; the celebrations, customs, and traditions are very religious in nature. Persecuted for their faith, the people in Iraq associate the festival of Christmas with two things — the birth of Jesus Christ and celebrations of the mid-winter holidays. With great devotion, the Christians celebrate the festival of Christmas by carrying out religious services and reciting prayers. The celebrations are historically serene and peaceful.
Ever since he can remember, Fadi Babbie has had warm memories of his family’s New Year’s Eve traditions, celebrated in his birthplace of Baghdad, Iraq. Not surprisingly, many of his memories are related to the food that was served.
Metro Detroit employers felt the ground shift beneath them during the height of the COVID pandemic in 2021-2022. Precautionary measures intended to limit the spread of COVID-19 had the devastating unintended effect of slowing to a trickle the revenue streams of “in-person” businesses such as restaurants, concert venues and banquet halls.
The future of the Chaldean community is something that I tend to contemplate quite often. I wonder how our cultural norms and language will evolve. I fear that while our faith persists, our culture and language are fading.
They never lose. Never. The Shaya brothers — Pierce and Connor — each won a flight championship at the Division 1 boys tennis state tournament this fall in Midland to maintain their perfect record at the sport’s biggest stage.
Life is full of many big and small moments. In this lifetime, we may experience many victories that leave us feeling accomplished, as well as plenty of defeats that can leave us feeling lost.
As a stateless and fragmented nation, our language is especially integral to our identity, as one of the last remaining links we share.
Detroit is home to a unique Middle Eastern community who call themselves Chaldeans. This article attempts to illuminate the Chaldean heritage and religion, tracing its journey from the grand civilizations of ancient Mesopotamia to the culturally rich villages of Northern Iraq. We will explore the profound legacy of the Chaldeans and examine the integral role of the Church of the East in their identity.
The Chaldean Community Foundation, in partnership with the Chaldean Heritage Center in West Bloomfield (Shenandoah Country Club), took the initiative to host the second annual Mesopotamian Writers Conference (Beth al-Nahrain) on Saturday, November 11 in the Wireless Vision Gymnasium located in the Chaldean Community Foundation building in Sterling Heights.
بادرت مؤسسة الجالية الكلدانية وبالمشاركة مع المركز التراثي الكلداني في مدينة ويست بلومفيلد (نادي شانندوا) باستضافة المؤتمر السنوي الثاني لكتّاب بلاد الرافدين (بيت النهرين) يوم السبت 11 نوفمبر 2023 في قاعة الألعاب الرياضية (وايرلس فيشن) الواقعة في بناية مؤسسة الجالية الكلدانية – ستيرلنك هايتس.
From November 3 through November 5, pieces from select artists were displayed at the Chaldean Community Foundation for the 2nd Annual Beth Nahrain Art Show. Featured artists included Reni Stephan, Sabah Wazi, Azhr Matti, Wilson Sarkis, Mark Georgies, Cassidy Azzow, Fr. Patrick Setto, Emad Tammo, Habib Hannona and Savannah Meyer. Proceeds from the event benefited the victims of the Bakhdida wedding fire through a fundraising effort supported by Nineveh Rising.
Cardinal Sako recently called for a secular system in Iraq that separates religion from the state, citing it as the optimal choice for governance in Iraq. Speaking at the Peace and Security Forum in the Dohuk province, Sako urged for a constitutional amendment in the country, emphasizing the importance of “establishing a civil democratic state that adopts citizenship, embraces diversity, and respects rights, civilizations, religions, and sects.”
Reni Stephan, 42, was born in Baghdad and moved to the U.S. when he was 11. He said his family has plenty of musical talent, and while he shares a love of music, his artistry is more visual in nature. Stephan is a sculptor and painter who owns the Studio Lamassu Art Studio on 15 Mile near Ryan Road in Sterling Heights.
Iraq’s President Abdul Latif Rashid met with the head of the Catholic Church Pope Francis in the Vatican after a controversial dispute earlier this year with the head of the Chaldean Church.
According to a statement released by the president’s office, Rashid and Pope Francis discussed the situation of Christians in Iraq with the president saying they are a “key component in the building of the country, its progress and prosperity.”
On November 11, 2023, a small crowd gathered to witness the rededication of an almost forgotten relic at the corner of Walnut Lake and Inkster Roads. The Peace Memorial was originally raised by the now defunct Walnut Lake Women’s Club to honor area military members who fought in the Civil War and both World Wars.
The CCF’s H.E.A.L. (Hard of Hearing, E.S.L., American Sign Language, Life Skills) Project is using a state-of-the-art driving simulator to help deaf students to learn how to drive. The H.E.A.L. Project helps better equip those with hearing impairments to live independent lives. Assisted by an American Sign Language interpreter for the deaf, the group will learn how to become licensed drivers.
A workshop regarding brain health was presented by Macomb Community College Nursing students on November 15. The event proved to be an invaluable resource for those in attendance to learn more about brain health, how to keep your mind healthy, proper nutrition and exercise to reduce stress.
Nearly 700 attendees had the opportunity to experience the land between two rivers through paintings, woodwork and sculptures at the 2nd Annual Beth Nahrain Art Show held at the Chaldean Community Foundation November 3-5.
Featured artists included Reni Stephan, Sabah Wazi, Azhr Matti, Wilson Sarkis, Mark Georgies, Cassidy Azzow, Fr. Patrick Setto, Emad Tammo, Habib Hannona and Savannah Meyer. Proceeds from the event benefited the victims of the Bakhdida wedding fire through a fundraising effort supported by Nineveh Rising.
Prospective college students and their families attended the Oakland University Admissions and Financial Aid Night on November 15. Guests were able to meet with Oakland University staff and ask questions about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the associated costs of higher education, and the overall admissions process.