Chaldean Archdiocese of Erbil – Day One of the 2025 Spiritual & Educational Catechism Camp

Under the theme “Walking Towards Hope”, the 2025 Summer Program for middle school students organized by the Chaldean Archdiocese of Erbil officially kicked off on Monday, July 14, 2025, and will run until July 19.

The first day began with a gathering at 4:30 p.m. in the courtyard of the Church of the Apostles, followed by an opening prayer inside the church. The organizing committee then gave a general overview of the program and its goals. Afterward, His Excellency Archbishop Bashar Matti Warda delivered a warm welcoming message, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and love in shared living.

The students then moved to the church hall for a lecture titled: “What Does It Mean to Be Together?” presented by Sister Nazek, O.P.. She spoke about the significance of others in our lives and in our journey of hope.

The day’s reflection centered on the presence of others in our path of hope. To be together means thinking of others as we think of ourselves. We are not alone in this world—there are people walking with us. We do not hope alone; we hope with others. This is clearly shown in the Bible from the very first chapters, where it says: “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him” (Genesis 2:18). Thus, the other is my companion on the journey—in the home, at school, in play, and in the church. The other exists because I exist. This is how God wants us to be: walking together and reaching our goal together.

After a short break, the students participated in group games and competitions held in the courtyard of the Christian Education Center. The day concluded with a closing prayer and dismissal at 8:15 p.m.