Bishop Sean is in Baghdad, where he yesterday (19 September) met Dr Rami Joseph Aghajan, Head of the Christian, Yazidi and Sabean-Mandaean Endowment Office. They were joined by religious and cultural affairs representative Dassen Suleiman Sfo.

The meeting was part of a framework of discussions encouraging the active participation of religious groups to promote shared values and mutual respect. Dr Aghajan outlined initiatives undertaken by the Endowment Office in support of community groups in need, and ways in which the Office could enhance cooperation between the Anglican Church and government entities.

Bishop Sean expressed his great appreciation for the warm welcome extended to him by Dr Aghajan on what was the bishop’s first official visit to Iraq, and for the strong ties binding the church and the remarkable organisation of the Endowment Office.

In the evening, Dr Aghajan accompanied Bishop Sean to Our Lady of Salvation Syriac Catholic Church—the site of a terrorist attack in 2010, and a place of particular importance in Iraq as a symbol of steadfastness in faith. Discussing the history and future of this church, Dr Aghajan stressed the importance of unity among all denominations and of coming together to meet in person.

A walk down Al-Mutanabbi Street, named after the 10th-century poet Abu al-Tayyib al-Mutanabbi and famous for its bookstalls and cafes, offered a truly special backdrop for conversation about literature, culture and their role in promoting interfaith dialogue. And the oldest cafe in Baghdad provided a unique atmosphere for Bishop Sean to reflect with Dr Aghajan and his colleagues on the challenges facing Iraq and ways to promote mutual understanding and respect.

“If we want to build a better future,” said Dr Aghajan, “we must pray for peace and love, and work together for a stable and prosperous Iraq.”

(Click on images below to enlarge)

Photo credit: Sinan Kakarash