Ezidi Family Preserves Christian Church in Alqosh

A Ezidi (Yezidi) family in Alqosh, Iraq, has been caring for the Mar Odisho Church, which has been abandoned for 21 years. Despite being non-Christians, Shahnaz Braim and her family have taken on the responsibility of cleaning and maintaining the church twice a week, as part of their commitment to religious coexistence and community harmony.

The family’s actions, motivated by respect and faith, highlight the area’s diverse religious history. The church, originally built in 1712, is located in the Nusayriyya complex, a once predominantly Christian area now home to many Ezidi families. The family’s dedication emphasizes the shared values between different religious communities, with the couple affirming that they would care for any place of worship, regardless of its affiliation.

This kind act by the Ezidi family beautifully exemplifies the peaceful and compassionate nature of the Ezidi people. Despite belonging to a different faith, they continue to preserve and maintain a Christian place of worship, guided by a deep respect for religious diversity and a shared commitment to their community’s well-being.

This act of kindness highlights the enduring spirit of coexistence that has allowed minority communities in the Middle East to survive and thrive, even in the face of adversity. In a region often marked by conflict and division, the Ezidi family’s efforts demonstrate how mutual support and respect across religious lines can create strong bonds that protect cultural and religious heritage. Their actions reflect a timeless truth: it is through empathy, solidarity, and collective care for one another that minority communities can endure and contribute to a more harmonious society.