Ur:

Controversy surrounds the unveiling of the 'Church of Abraham Al Khalili' in Ur, Nasiriya, Southern Iraq, where Abraham's spiritual journey began in the Old Testament. The Church is scheduled to open on March 6, 2024, marking the third anniversary of Pope Francis' visit. 

According to the Chaldean Patriarchate media, the Iraqi government has mandated the removal of the Church's name, instead designating it as the 'Center for Interfaith Dialogue.' The statement further asserts that the current government shows little concern for upholding the rights of Christians, opting for measures that infringe upon them. 

The Chaldean Church views the matter as politicized and extending beyond its religious purview. Bishop Habib Hormuz, the pastor of the Chaldean Diocese of Basra and the South, stated his participation in the church opening ceremony, if invited, is linked to his ecclesiastical leadership position.

Bishop Hormuz emphasized that the 'Church of Abraham Hebron' historically falls within the boundaries of his diocese. He explained that historical dioceses of the Church of the East flourished in southern Iraq in the first centuries AD, such as the Diocese of Al-Zawabi and the Diocese of Al-Hira, in addition to the Diocese of Furat Meshan, which later became Basra. Historically, the current ‘Ur’ region was under its supervision, as it was not a diocesan center.

The Church has sparked controversy in local circles, with fears that it could become a missionary center.  Tribal sheik and businessman Ador Fotohi donated a 10,000 square meter area to build the church.

The Chaldean Patriarchate said, "This church is poised to become a global pilgrimage site for Christians and others, breathing new life into the 'City of Ur' similar to the transformation of the Jordan River bath in Jordan into a pilgrimage center.  The Jordan River bath, the place where Jesus Christ was baptized, is visited by millions of Christians worldwide."