On the tenth anniversary of the rise of ISIS, Common Home TV looks back with the release of its latest short documentary, “Learning to Serve in the Face of Terror”, which focuses on the remarkable actions of Chaldean Catholic Archbishop Bashar Warda, CSsR, in response to the humanitarian crisis caused by the rise of ISIS in Iraq. The documentary is available as both a video and podcast.
ISIS’s invasion and capture of Mosul triggered one of the largest displacements of people in recent history. The documentary examines the critical period when thousands of Christians, Yazidis, and Muslims were forced to flee their homes to escape violence and persecution. As Erbil became a sanctuary for the displaced, Archbishop Warda leaned on his Catholic faith and Redemptorist charism to lead and provide essential aid, shelter, and hope to those in desperate need.
Reflecting on the rapid and unexpected takeover by ISIS, Archbishop Warda said, “It was a surprise to everyone. We knew the dangers of sectarian violence, but no one expected that one day the entire province of Mosul would be hijacked by ISIS in such a short time.” He added, “People walked for over 12 hours to reach safety because they were completely unprepared for what happened. We had to respond with whatever resources we had, offering help to all in need, regardless of their faith.”
“Learning to Serve in the Face of Terror” provides an in-depth look at how Archbishop Warda, faced with overwhelming challenges, mobilised resources to care for vulnerable communities. His leadership ensured that the displaced received both essential aid and spiritual support during their darkest hours, serving as a powerful testament to Catholic social teaching in action.
Common Home TV is a mission of the Redemptorists of Oceania that presents the Catholic tradition in a way that resonates with contemporary society.
Matthew Howard
