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JONI B. HANNIGAN
Managing Editor
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MIDDLE EAST (FBW)—In a historic move spurred by new-found religious freedom in Iraq, Baptists there have elected a moderator who has the support of Baptists in other Arab countries to set up a center for ministry in Baghdad.
Though the Catholic and Orthodox churches have had a long-standing presence in Iraq, the formation of a Baptist Union is a first for Iraqi Baptists who anticipate being able to openly practice their faith in the pre-dominantly Muslim country seeking to rebuild after the recent liberation by Coalition forces.
In a special presentation, the newly elected moderator told a group of relief workers God has prepared him to return to his native homeland of Iraq where 15-20 believers are awaiting baptism and one leader will soon be ordained to the Gospel ministry.
Quoting Genesis 32:9-10, Fadi* said he and his family will claim the promise God gave to Jacob. "Go back to your country and your relatives and I will make you prosper, I am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant."
Fadi said he has been impressed by the support he has received from other evangelical Christians throughout the world.
"Love is evident from people who come from all the corners of the world to partner with those in Iraq," he said. "The love of Christ makes us all friends."
Up to this point in history, Fadi said work in Iraq has been accomplished only with "one eye on ministry and the other eye on Saddam Hussein."
Asking for prayer that God will provide wise leaders, Fadi said he is hoping others will soon see the fruits of the ministry in Baghdad.
"I am hoping God’s message will penetrate not only Iraq, but the whole Middle East," said Fadi.
*Fadi’s real name and details of this ministry have been withheld due to security concerns because of increased tension in Iraq after the bombing of the United Nations building in late August and threats to relief workers.
Joni B. Hannigan, managing editor of Florida Baptist Witness, is on assignment with a Southern Baptist relief team in Jordan.
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