Ministry Work Remains Strong in Iraq Despite Violence
The oldest on-going ministry to persecuted Christians is still meeting the demands of spiritual hunger in Iraq despite the nation’s escalating violence.
The oldest on-going ministry to persecuted Christians is still meeting the demands of spiritual hunger in Iraq despite the nation’s escalating violence.
Being one of the few Christian literature distributors in the Islamic state, Open Doors International remains committed to fully run its ministry operations in the war-torn country.
"At the moment, we are the biggest distributor of Christian literature in the country," said the field coordinator for the 50-year-old non-profit organization.
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Working with churches and Christians in Iraq, Open Doors is going through creative channels to provide Bibles and Christian books and materials to the Iraqi believers. Christian leaders have been purchasing the resources and visiting libraries, and materials for children, particularly, are in high demand.
New full-colored booklets featuring six different biblical events and a music cassette are now available for the Iraqi children. Copies of a handbook titled "Counseling Youth," a newly published daily devotional called "One Year through the Bible" and the "Chronicles of Narnia" will also be distributed through the country this year.
Local workers have been able to set up 12 libraries in 12 different churches for children and adults as well with resources provided by Open Doors.
Additionally, the Christian organization opened an exhibition room, showcasing the available materials and attracting new visitors every day, according to an Open Doors contact.
"Every day, we have visitors in our new office, even during the present renovation," the distribution coordinator stated. "Many people are so happy to see the new place with a display of the books we distribute in the country."
Books are easily accessible and purchasable, drawing many Christians.
"Many Christian leaders like the fact that we are non-denominational,” the coordinator added. “We are not related or linked to one church. That makes it easy for many to access and buy books from us."
"We give thanks to our Lord for allowing Open Doors to distribute Christian literature inside Iraq," said Open Doors USA President Dr. Carl Moeller, in a released statement. "It is dangerous work. But that is why Open Doors is there – to support and strengthen suffering Christians who remain. Please join me in prayer for our co-workers there and for the safe distribution of our Christian literature."
The dangers involved have not forced the local workers to stop their ministry work. Friends and relatives of Open Doors team members have been kidnapped, according to the organization's report.
Although "life and work is not easy in Iraq,” the Christian workers still express gratitude, said Open Doors’ field coordinator.
"We are grateful for the prayers of Open Doors' supporters and the funds made available by them for Iraq.”
Christians make up around three percent of the entire population with persecution arising increasingly. Last month, six churches were bombed, killing three and wounding 22.
Nevertheless, the body of Christ is becoming stronger in the face of persecution with believers uniting to form a solid platform.
"The leaders of the various churches are still working on forming an evangelical alliance," said Open Doors’ coordinator for Iraq. “They have almost finished the process. Creating such a platform will help the Church to remain strong, forming one fist in this country."
Open Doors works with Iraqi Christians to empower the local church and provide necessary materials.
On Mar. 1, the ministry will be releasing its annual World Watch List on the top 50 persecuting nations.
