IRAQ: Church Leader Faces Accusations of Blasphemy

Source: VOMC
Sources: Middle East Concern, Rudaw

Bishop Bahzad Mziri Photo: Middle East Concern

Bahzad Mziri, the bishop of an Anabaptist church in the Kurdistan city of Duhok, is facing threats of blasphemy charges after social media comments were published. Considered by some Iraqi Facebook recipients to be offensive to Islam, the post comparing Jesus to the Islamic prophet Mohammed was made in response to insulting statements published online earlier by a Muslim leader. The post on the bishop's Facebook account was reposted on February 16th by Muslims intent on inciting anger.

The Iraqi Ministry of Religious Affairs, along with several Islamic leaders, has filed a court case against Bishop Mziri. In his defence, the bishop has apologized and explained the context of the statements. Unfortunately, the original post from the Muslim cleric could no longer be found online. Bishop Mziri also stated that he was not the one to make the responding post. Instead, someone in his office had posted the comment without his approval. Bishop Mziri told reporters that he has been actively involved in promoting religious tolerance in the Duhok region and, therefore, would never have done anything to jeopardize religious coexistence.

Despite the Christian leader's apology, the authorities are intent on proceeding with the charges against him. However, they have also assured the church that protection would be provided against any reported threats, and that further measures will be taken to contain outrage from militant Islamic groups. Despite these assurances, the church has been curtailing its public activities – including worship services – at last report.
For more information on the difficulties facing Christians in Iraq, go to our country report.

Ask God to provide protection, peace and wisdom to Bishop Mziri, as well as members of the affiliated church, during this time of heightened tension.

In light of the circumstances surrounding the social media post, pray that those who have been offended by the responding statement will extend mercy and forgiveness. As a result, may the charges against this Christian leader be dropped. 

Ultimately, may the light of the Gospel spread throughout the country so that many Iraqis will have opportunities to respond to God's provision of eternal salvation by placing their faith in His Son, Jesus Christ (John 3:16).