A Conversation with our Neighbour in Iraq

As you read your copy of the December Voice and with vast stocks of Christmas goods continuing to be sold in our shops (some Christmas items on sale since September), it is perhaps difficult to equate the preparation for Christ’s birth with the excessive pressure on consumers, especially hard pressed families.

There is another alternative. Many now believe it is more important to cut down on ‘treats’ and overindulgence and support the needy and the vulnerable. Think about it… Do you really need that extra tin of Quality Street?

I was recently in the company of Dr Jaffar Al-Ghaban, the Paediatric Consultant from Baghdad Central Training Hospital for Children. The diocesan project for this hospital has been a ‘life line’ for the last few years. Jaffar was in this country for six weeks updating his medical skills at Nottingham Medical School. He told me he has been deeply moved by two examples of Christian charity: the ongoing support from the Diocese of Middlesbrough for the sick and vulnerable children under his care and the way in which the Christian community in Nottingham has made him feel part of their ‘family’. This seems to represent the essence of the Christmas Story; inclusiveness; belonging; hope and charity.

Jaffar asked me to order one specific drug for Christmas delivery, rather than a variety of supplies. Jaffar said ‘…really you are giving life for our Iraqi children with cancer. Please note the Vincristine you are ordering is part of most cancer protocols for children.’ As we parted he said to me: ‘Please tell all the good people in your Catholic community that the medical team and children in Baghdad wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas and New Year, free from terrorists and terrorism.’ Safe indeed: safe in the knowledge that we are relatively secure from violence and war, safe also in the knowledge that we can reach out and make a difference and safe too in our belief that God has already saved us by the enduring message of Christmas.

John Hinman

Trustee and Project Coordinator for the Baghdad Appeal

If you would like to send a donation for the children suffering from cancer in Baghdad, please send your cheques to the Finance Office, Diocesan Curial Office, 50a The Avenue, Linthorpe, Middlesbrough, TS5 6QT made payable to the ‘Diocese of Middlesbrough (Baghdad Appeal)‘