March 13, 2008
Kidnapped Iraqi Archbishop Found Dead
The body of a Chaldean Catholic archbishop kidnapped Feb. 29 has been found in Mosul (via AFP):
The body of Paulos Faraj Rahho, the archbishop of Mosul who was kidnapped on February 29, was found near the northern city, the Church said, quoting the auxiliary archbishop of Baghdad, Shlemon Warduni.It was unclear if he died of natural causes or was killed.
The kidnappers had telephoned to inform the Baghdad prelate that Rahho, who was in poor health, had died and that they had buried him, the Church's news agency SIR reported.
"The kidnappers had told us already yesterday (Wednesday) that Monsignor Rahho was very ill, and yesterday afternoon they told us that he died. This morning, they telephoned us to say they had buried him," Warduni said, adding that the kidnappers indicated the location of the body.
"We still don't know whether he died from his poor health or was killed," Warduni said. "The kidnappers only told us that he was dead."
Abp. Rahho leaves behind a flock that faces increasing persecution from both Sunni and Shiite Muslims. Prayers for their strength and courage, and for protection from their persecutors.
By Vicki No-Veil at March 13, 2008 08:43 AM | | l digg this
