BAGHDAD, OCT. 4, 2007 (Zenit.org).- The rector of the only Christian theological college in Iraq began the new academic year on an optimistic note.
Monsignor Jacques Isaac told Baghdadhope.com: "We need optimism and courage, and I am optimistic. Optimistic about the role Babel College has and will have in the education of Iraqi clergy.
"Our duty, as an ecclesiastic institution, is to educate but above all prepare the future witnesses of Christ."
The academic year of Babel College began Sunday in Ankawa. The college is managed by the Patriarchate of Babylon of Chaldeans.
The college and St. Peter's Major Seminary relocated for security reasons from Baghdad to the northern city of Ankawa in January. The neighborhood of Dora, where the headquarters of both institutions were first located, has become one of the most dangerous areas of Baghdad.
Speaking of the new installations, the monsignor said: "We already have 6,000 books, a good number, but nothing compared to those that are still in the college library in Baghdad, books that we cannot take back by now, because the college, the seminary and the convent in Dora are unapproachable.
"Not only the area is extremely dangerous, but the three buildings are still occupied by the American army that transformed them into their base in the area."
Monsignor Issac also announced that courses of the Institute for Religious Studies will begin again in Baghdad, but at the Church of Mar Ghorghis. He said that the news is "a sign that in spite of the difficulties Church continues on its path of faith and courage."
ZE07100404 - 2007-10-04