The Astonishing Growth of the C&MA Church of Baghdad, Iraq

Rev. Shahatit (left) with Rev. Joseph and his family

During his recent visit to Erbil, Rev. Shahatit met with Rev. Joseph Francese, pastor of the C&MA Church of Baghdad, in Iraq. He received the good news that the church is growing and continues to share God’s Word.

According to Rev. Joseph Francese, despite the hard situations they are facing, the C&MA Church in Baghdad is experiencing growth, and more than 400 people from different backgrounds are attending. They already have baptized 30 people in 2018.

An example of the obstacles the church faces is what happened a few weeks ago: there was a huge bombing in the city and the church’s van was in the area where it happened. Praise God, the brother who was driving survived. He suffered only some injuries to his hand. Unfortunately, the van was damaged beyond repair. When asked about what motivates him to continue with such enthusiasm, Rev. Francese said they experience daily God’s miracles in the saving of many souls of all backgrounds.

Please be praying for them as they faithfully serve the Lord and His church in this very hard and needy land. Pray for the new souls that were baptized. Pray that God will provide more workers to join the ministry team.

Pray, too, that God will provide another van; they need to replace it soon. If God touches your heart to be actively involved in this project, let us know. Please, pray also for God’s protection for Rev. Joseph and his family and the whole church.