In Iraq, Christians and Muslims have worshipped side by side for centuries

[NNN0LHI]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/8429905.stm

Page last updated at 13:13 GMT, Friday, 25 December 2009

Iraqi Christians' still face uncertain future

By Rob Walker
BBC News, Baghdad

At the church of the Virgin Mary in Baghdad, hymns sung in the ancient Aramaic language float through intricately carved wooden doors into a small courtyard outside.

They mix with religious songs blasted from the loudspeakers of a mosque opposite.

Next to the church, two Muslim women, veiled in black, wait for their turn to light candles to the Virgin Mary.

In Iraq, Christians and Muslims have worshipped side by side for centuries.

But half of the congregation of the Virgin Mary church have fled in recent years.

---------------------------------------------------

Yea, in the recent years since we occupied their country.

[atreides1]

1. It's ironic

Iraqi Christians were safer under Saddam then they are now.

[DavidDvorkin]

2. Christians and Jews were both safe under Saddam

Women had more rights, more people had jobs, etc.

[Hydra]

3. Don't mess with the propaganda!

We're there "saving" them! Yes we are!