Standing with the Christians from Mosul

Our hearts have been broken as we have seen the recent events taking place in Iraq.

With the fall of Mosul and Tikkrit by the ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria), the over 35,000 Christians who have lived in this area for 1800 years were given an ultimatum:

All Christians must 1.) Convert to Islam, 2.) Pay the ‘jizya’ tax that renders them ‘dhimmis’ – i.e., second-class citizens granted limited protection if they hand over half an ounce of pure gold, 3.) Death by the sword. or 4.) Leave with the confiscation of all they own. They had until noon, Saturday, July 19th to decide. 35,000 Christians chose to leave with just the clothes on their back, most on foot (see pic above).

Those who were able to escape had their homes, cars, clothing, businesses and finances all confiscated or abandoned. They need food, clothing and shelter. We are working to provide these necessities to those who are now refugees in Kirkuk and Erbil.

We are working with my friend and our ministry contact, Francis, in Erbil. The questions we have asked in regard to aid are as follows: 1.) What are the needs of the evacuees? 2.) How do we get the resources of food needed? 3.) Are there Christian food merchants that we can source the food through? 4.) Is there need for water? 5.) Is there need for clothing? 6.) Is there need for shelter? 7.) What assets do we have on the ground? 8.) Can the churches assist with the distribution?

Francis’ response was simple: “We have all that you need. The resources are available, there is the simple need of finances. Come help us“

The immediate need is for $20,000 to provide food. Followed by another $6,000 for a shipping container with clothes to be collected through the ministry, and $4,000 for logistics. We invite you to respond to this crisis and reach out with Indigenous Ministries to our Brothers and Sisters in Iraq. Can you help us help them?

Thank you for your prayers for the Christians in Iraq and your partnership.

“What man is a man that does not leave this world a better place?”