On December 12, King Charles III participated in a mass and various events at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in London to mark the 10th anniversary of the Islamic State's invasion of Iraq. The event was organized in collaboration with the pontifical charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN). Following the mass, King Charles expressed his prayers for the Syrian people who are suffering under the control of rebel groups linked to Islamic extremists.
Fr. Peter Gallagher, Jesuit Provincial of Britain, expressed his gratitude to the King for his attendance, emphasizing the significance of coming together in faith and unity to recognize the divine presence that guides the Christian community. Fr. Dominic Robinson, vicar of Farm Street Church and a Jesuit priest, praised the event as a success, noting the importance of uniting people from diverse Christian traditions, as well as individuals from other faiths and non-believers, during this Advent season.
Dr. Caroline Hull, National Director of ACN UK, reflected on the enduring persecution faced by Christians in the Middle East, dating back to the early centuries of Christianity. She highlighted the King’s ongoing compassion for the suffering of believers in the region, noting that his support has been a source of inspiration for many.
ACN has been actively working to assist the Christian community in Iraq, particularly in the town of Qaraqosh and the Nineveh Plains. Through their efforts, many churches and homes have been rebuilt, allowing displaced Christians to return to their homes. King Charles III has consistently championed the plight of Christians in the Middle East, using his platform to raise global awareness.
In 2018, while still the Prince of Wales, Charles attended an event at Westminster Abbey to honor the contributions of Christians in the Middle East. During the event, he met with representatives of the Iraqi Christian community in London, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting persecuted Christians worldwide.