BAGHDAD, Iraq, APRIL 3, 2007 (Zenit.org).- There are plans for a full liturgical schedule this Easter, but death and violence make its fulfillment uncertain, says the auxiliary bishop of the Chaldean Archdiocese of Babylon.
"Here death is lurking around every corner," Bishop Shlemon Warduni told the Italian bishops' SIR news agency.
He spoke of his sadness "over the exodus of Christians from the country," and acknowledged bitterness because of "living in a situation to which there seems to be no end."
"Victims are the sick, the elderly, children and many orphans, due to the indescribable violence caused by car bombs, suicidal terrorists and criminals," the 63-year-old prelate explained last Friday.
But, "Easter will strengthen our certainty of a future of justice, tolerance and reconciliation," Bishop Warduni affirmed.
The Chaldean patriarchate has moved forward the celebration of the Easter Vigil to the early hours of Holy Saturday evening.
"It is too dangerous to go out at night," the prelate explained. Yet, "we hope that faith will give our Christians the courage to overcome difficulties and take part in the rites.
"Holy Week is a time of fasting. Our fasting is the suffering in which we live. We offer it up, not only for Iraq, but for the whole world."
Estimates indicate that since 2003, at least half of Iraq's 1.2 million Christians have fled the country.
Code: ZE07040311
Date: 2007-04-03