Easter in Iraq 3: Dreaming of a new Qaraqosh

Noor is a 29-year-old architect. When so-called Islamic State conquered Qaraqosh, Iraq in 2014, she had to leave her home. Now, she and her family have returned to Qaraqosh to help with the rebuilding.

For the first time since ISIS drove all the Christians from Iraq’s Nineveh Plain in 2014, the Christian town of Qaraqosh celebrates Easter after many of its families returned. All this week leading to Easter, we will be visiting Qaraqosh to meet with Christians there.

Noor is a 29-year-old architect. When so-called Islamic State conquered Qaraqosh in 2014, she had to leave her home. Now, she and her family have returned to Qaraqosh to help with the rebuilding.

Like many others, Noor considered leaving Iraq completely.

“Many Christians have left Iraq and also I thought about that, because of the insecurity. I thought about the future of my little daughter.”

But Noor decided to stay and put her skills to use in the reconstruction of her home.

"I dream of Qaraqosh, my town. It will be better than before – like paradise!"

And she has a message for all the Christians around the world who have been supporting displaced and persecuted Iraqi Christians.

“Me and every single Christian in Iraq. We are proud and thankful for every Christian in the whole world that you are thinking of us. Praying for us. And we are so grateful to you that you are helping us with your prayers. So thank you.”

hope for the middle east

Open Doors has launched a global, seven-year campaign to mobilise Christians to bring hope to the Middle East. The Hope for the Middle East petition, backed by 808,172 people from 143 countries worldwide, called for Christians in Iraq and Syria to have the right to equal citizenship, dignified living conditions and a prominent role in reconciling and rebuilding society.

Your generosity and support is already bringing about positive changes.

The challenges faced by our brothers and sisters in the Middle East will not be solved overnight. Open Doors partners are providing tens of thousands of families in Syria and Iraq with vital aid and long-term support, thanks to your incredible generosity and prayers. We must continue to support our church family in prayer and action – and Open Doors is committed to walking with them for as long as they need.

Bring hope to the Middle East: support Christians in Syria and Iraq