The Voice of the suffering in Middle East
Here you’ll find the latest updates on the struggles and resilience of persecuted communities around the world. These stories highlight both the challenges they endure and the faith that sustains them. Stay connected to learn how hope continues to shine through suffering.
In northern Iraq, hope that the pandemic will boost spirit of love
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"[Christ] managed to resurrect the dead and heal all kinds of disease. Our belief in him is great. He can end our crisis. And perhaps these difficult circumstances will reconcile us with God.”
With eye on pandemic, ACN launches new emergency aid program for Syrian Christians
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Many people in Syria have already reached the end of their strength, as a result of the war and the ongoing economic sanctions. But now they have to face a new enemy, the coronavirus.
In northeastern Syria, Christians are caught between war planes and COVID-19
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"Christians are loved in the region, especially since the humanitarian organizations are all Christian, and they provide 80 percent of their aid to Muslims. Going to church, ringing bells is possible as it has always been."
In Aleppo, Syria, COVID-19 adds to ongoing suffering, especially for the poor
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“The number of Christian families, of all denominations, in Aleppo before the war stood at around 30,000. Now that figure has fallen to around 10,000."
Iraq: Christians desire ‘a real and profound change of the political system’
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"Personally, I am optimistic regarding the future of the Christians on the Nineveh Plains and in Iraq. Through education and cultural dialogue, we can overcome obscurantism and violence."
Coronavirus puts economic toll on Christians in the Holy Land
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On March 12, the Franciscan Pilgrims Office in Jerusalem cancelled until further notice all Masses booked by pilgrimage tour companies at Holy Land shrines.
