Saturday, Apr 27 2024 Donate
A service of EWTN News

Benedict XVI prays for murdered Syrian Orthodox priest

Saturday saw more violence against Christians in Iraq, as an Assyrian Orthodox priest was gunned down outside of his house. Pope Benedict expressed his “profound sorrow” upon hearing of the killing, which is the latest in a string of attacks Christians.

Yesterday 300 mourners gathered in central Baghdad for the funeral of Father Youssed Adel. The crowd, which was led by the slain priest’s wife Lamia, was accompanied by heavy security. 

In a telegram, sent via the apostolic nunciature to Iraq to the Syrian Orthodox Archbishop Mar Saverius Jamil Hawa, Pope Benedict expressed his deep sadness at the death of Fr. Yousef Adel Abudi and assured “Your Eminence, the priests and the religious of the archdiocese of his closeness in prayer.”

The Pontiff also prayed “that all people will follow the ways of peace in order to build a just and tolerant society in the beloved land of Iraq".

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.

As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Click here

Our mission is the truth. Join us!

Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.

Donate to CNA