BAGHDAD (IshtarTV.com) – The official page of St. Thomas Chaldean Church reported that the parish celebrated its reopening following the completion of rehabilitation works and the consecration of its altars, coinciding with the First Communion celebration for thirteen students, amidst a large gathering and a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
His Grace Archbishop Habib Al-Naufali, Archbishop of the Chaldean Archeparchy of Basra and the South, presided over the solemn Mass and performed the rites of the altar consecration, assisted by parish priest Father Hanna Qallo, with the participation of a wide congregation of the faithful and parishioners. The church statement noted that His Beatitude Patriarch Mar Paulus III Nona was unable to attend the occasion due to a sudden health indisposition, offering prayers for his speedy recovery and full health.
The religious ceremonies featured a special spiritual milestone as thirteen young boys and girls received their First Holy Communion, marking a significant step in their church journey amidst the joy of their families and the congregation.
Following the Divine Liturgy, parish priest Father Hanna Qallo delivered an address reviewing the comprehensive restoration and rehabilitation phases the church underwent over the past four months, which radically renewed the building and restored its architectural and spiritual beauty. Father Qallo noted that the project cost exceeded $50,000, expressing his appreciation for the contributions and donations of the faithful outside Iraq, and affirming that this achievement is the fruit of love, cooperation, and sincere devotion to the House of the Lord.
The celebration also included honoring several figures who played an active role in completing the rehabilitation works, alongside honoring the First Communion children. At the conclusion of the ceremonies, parishioners presented a commemorative gift to Father Hanna Qallo in appreciation of his efforts in securing the necessary financial support to renovate the church, before attendees moved to the church hall to cut the celebration cake in a fraternal atmosphere filled with joy and hope.
