To End Christian Persecution, We Must Preserve Religious Freedom

Tags: Currents Aid to the Church in Need, Christian Persecution, Christians, Christians in the Middle East, World News

Currents News Staff

Bombing after bombing have been occuring around the world, just part of the most recent pattern of attacks against modern-day Christians.

This already makes 2019 the bloodiest year yet for believers.

Officials around the world agree: the persecution of Christians is nearing genocide.

Knox Thames, the U.S. Special Advisor For Religious Minorities, says religious freedom is one of the most violated liberties in the world, especially in Iraq.

In the birthplace of Christianity, the faith is facing extinction.

Since the United States-led invasion toppled Saddam Hussein’s regime, the Christian community there has dwindled from 1.5 million to less than 120,000.

Despite the fact that the Islamic State terror group has been defeated in the country, the Archbishop of Erbil, Bashar Warda, believes there is still a fear stopping Christians from coming home.

They fear that the Islamic State will return and attack again.

“One of the oldest churches, if not the oldest church in the world, is perilously close to extinction,” Archbishop Warda said. “Those of us who remain must be ready to face martyrdom.”

Pascal Warda, a Christian and former minister in the country echoes his concerns.

There are still members of the Islamic State in hiding.

Archbishop Warda accuses the world’s leaders of “political correctness,” saying many will not speak out for Christians for fear of being labeled Islamophobic.  

Executive President of Aid To The Church In Need International, Doctor Thomas Heine-Geldern, is an expert on issues surrounding the global persecution of Christians.

National Correspondent for The Tablet and Crux, Christopher White spoke exclusively with Doctor Thomas Heine-Geldern on the matter.