The Vicar of Baghdad

I have recently been engrossed by a book by Canon Andrew White. He is vicar of St George's church in Baghdad, the only Anglican church in Iraq, and has thus become known as "The Vicar of Baghdad" (also the title of the book). Whilst living in Iraq, White has continued the work for reconciliation that he promoted during his time as Director of International Ministry at Coventry Cathedral. He is President of the Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East, which was established in 2005 as part of his reconciliation work in Iraq and the Middle East as a whole.

His work of reconciliation can be immensely frustrating, disheartening and dangerous. Even his very presence in Iraq endangers his life. The situation for the worshippers at St George's is one we would find hard to imagine. In September 2005 all of the lay church leaders were kidnapped and killed. A few months ago a deadly car bomb exploded near the church, leaving many congregation members dead or injured. Yet despite all the problems, difficulties and dangers, Andrew White presses on with his ministry of reconciliation.

He has a deep love for Iraq and for the Iraqi people. He regularly meets with key leaders from the region, both political and religious, and is very widely respected by people from many different backgrounds. He is even willing to meet with the people of violence in order to further the search for peace.

He is motivated and strengthened by his knowledge and experience of God's love in Christ, a love which is for every person. Jesus challenges his disciples with these words, 'Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall see God.' I have been deeply moved and challenged by reading Andrew White's book. I might not be able to work for peace in Iraq, but I may well have opportunity to work for peace and reconciliation in situations and relationships which I meet from day to day. And that is a challenge for us all.