At A Glance:
When the Islamic State invaded Iraq in 2014, Christians faced genocide and mass displacement. Families who had run businesses for generations watched their livelihoods crumble to rubble. Without a way to earn a living, many families planned to leave for good.
But thanks to faithful supporters, that's changing.
More Than Income — A Reason to Stay
This quarter, 3 new businesses launched thanks to our supporters: a mobile café, a mini-market, and a cosmetics shop. At least 6 more are in the works.
These businesses represent more than just income sources. They're proof that the Church in Iraq can stand strong and families can stay rooted in their homeland.
Elias lost everything during the ISIS occupation. Now he runs a mobile coffee shop, serving authentic Italian espresso to university students by day and families by night.
"This mobile coffee shop is a dream come true," Elias shared. "I always wanted to create a place that brings people together – a warm space where we can share ideas and laughter over a good cup of coffee. I'm deeply thankful to God and to those who made this possible."
“I'm deeply thankful to God and to those who made this possible."
— Elias, persecuted believer in IraqYousef's family survived on inconsistent daily labor, barely making ends meet. Now he runs a mini-market that serves his entire community with household essentials.
"This support changed my life," Yousef said. "I now have a shop of my own, something I worked years for, but could never afford. I thank God for this blessing and everyone who believed in me."
George worked in cosmetics for years but could never afford to open his own shop – until now. His new store offers high-quality European beauty products rarely available in the region.
"Opening this shop is something I dreamed of but could never afford on my own," George shared. "Now I can build a stable life for my family. I thank the Lord for this blessing."
The Church in Iraq Holds Strong
Christian families who might have emigrated for good are now back, serving their communities with dignity and purpose. The next generation has a reason to stay, and the Church in Iraq holds strong because the worldwide Church responded like family.
Recovery after genocide takes years. But with sustained support, Christian families can rebuild, stay rooted in their communities, and pass their faith on to the next generation.
Still recovering from Isis Stand with Persecuted Believers in Iraq
Recovery after attacks like these takes years – more than one-time gifts alone can sustain. With continued support, Christian families can rebuild, stay rooted in their communities, and pass their faith on to the next generation. Consider making a lasting impact with monthly giving.