In Iraq, an exodus of Christians (hundreds of thousands have fled since 2003)

[sabra]

Source: AP

BAGHDAD (AP) — Iraq has lost more than half the Christians who once called it home, mostly since the war began, and few who fled have plans to return, The Associated Press has learned.

Pope Benedict XVI called attention to their plight during a Mideast visit this week, urging the international community to ensure the survival of "the ancient Christian community of that noble land."

The number of Arab Christians has plummeted across the Mideast in recent years as increasing numbers seek to move to the West, saying they feel increasingly unwelcome in the Middle East and want a better life abroad.

But the exodus has been particularly stark in Iraq — where sectarian violence since the U.S.-led 2003 invasion has often targeted Christians.

The AP found that hundreds of thousands of Christians have fled.

Read more: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5j4UAQt59D5usuXbHKfM31tGJ4ORAD985UGM80

[Old Coot]

1. Bush caused this! nt

[iamthebandfanman]

2. yah, saddam used to keep the religious sects

pretty much in check... and u were free to worship whatever in iraq... so long as you understood he was the man and could kill ya at any second if ya disagreed with that ;)

[LittleGirl]

3. Our tenants are Christian Iraq refugees

We own an apt in London and our tenants are refugees from Iraq. They have two small children. I doubt they will ever return. Nice people. I can't imagine having my country invaded and forced to leave like that. I don't know their whole story but I can only imagine what happened.