Story perspectives

Father Ragheed's Legacy: A Call Against Christian Persecution

9/9/2025

24 2

Summary

Story summary

In May 2005, Father Ragheed addressed a Eucharistic Congress in Bari, Italy, on Christian persecution.
He stressed the Eucharist's vital role, stating, “Without the Sunday Eucharist, we cannot live.”
Father Ragheed contrasted his community's struggles with Western indifference to religious freedom.
He was murdered on June 3, 2007, after celebrating Mass, alongside three subdeacons.
His death raised awareness of Christian persecution, prompting mourning within the Chaldean Church and beyond.

1 of 1

Story summary

In May 2005, Father Ragheed addressed a Eucharistic Congress in Bari, Italy, on Christian persecution.
He stressed the Eucharist's vital role, stating, “Without the Sunday Eucharist, we cannot live.”
Father Ragheed contrasted his community's struggles with Western indifference to religious freedom.
He was murdered on June 3, 2007, after celebrating Mass, alongside three subdeacons.
His death raised awareness of Christian persecution, prompting mourning within the Chaldean Church and beyond.