Last Sunday, the archbishop celebrated the closing Mass of the Year of the Eucharist.
«We celebrated the feast of the Annunciation according to the Chaldean liturgy,» the prelate told AsiaNews. The 10 were ordained on that occasion.
«The church was full; we were about 350,» the 67-year-old prelate said. «We could read happiness on the faces of the faithful and the new deacons.»
The Chaldean archbishop continued: «We shall pray for peace and security on this Christmas as well. People are looking forward to the Dec. 15 elections as an opportunity for having confidence in the future.»
Parishes in the diocese are preparing for Christmas ceremonies and carols. «We expect celebrations will take place regularly,» he added. «The mood among Catholics and all the people of Basra is positive. There is a sense that things are improving.»
