Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani enters the Church of St. Grigor for Armenian Orthodox Christians in central Baghdad during its reopening ceremony following restoration work.
Al-Sudani reopens restored Armenian Orthodox church in central Baghdad
BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Sunday inaugurated the Church of St. Grigor for Armenian Orthodox Christians in central Baghdad, marking the reopening of the historic site after restoration work carried out as part of a project to rehabilitate old Baghdad neighborhoods and heritage landmarks.
According to a statement from the prime minister’s media office received by 964media, al-Sudani opened the church “on the occasion of the approaching Christmas holidays,” following the completion of rehabilitation works.
Al-Sudani toured the church’s halls and corridors to review what the statement described as a comprehensive restoration of “this important landmark.” He said he valued being present at the religious site and announcing its reopening after the completion of restoration and rehabilitation works.
He said the church building “stands as a witness to the innocent victims targeted by terrorism in Al-Tayaran Square, who were innocent and peaceful Iraqis.”
Al-Sudani said the reconstruction of the church reflects “diversity and coexistence in the new Iraq,” calling it “a step toward reviving Baghdad’s brilliance and preserving its heritage and cultural, civilizational and architectural legacy.”
He said rehabilitating the church is “a commitment and a duty toward a respected segment of our people,” thanking all those who contributed to the restoration effort. He added that the government will continue working to preserve heritage and “highlight Baghdad’s historical face by reviving its architectural landmarks.”
The prime minister said work is ongoing to rehabilitate old areas of Baghdad and its enduring landmarks, and to continue preserving the city’s architectural heritage, describing Baghdad as “radiant with its churches, mosques and buildings.”
He said Iraq emerged from its confrontation with terrorism “victorious and united thanks to the blood of our martyrs from all components of our people,” and has moved forward toward rebuilding the country and achieving economic, urban and development progress.
The Church of St. Grigor for Armenian Orthodox Christians underwent maintenance, restoration and rehabilitation in what officials described as the first and most extensive renovation since its construction in 1957, with the aim of reviving the religious and heritage site.