Convert to Islam, Pay the Tax, Flee–or Die

Imagine waking up one morning to find a red spray-painted symbol on the front of your house, identifying you as a Christian. The Arabic letter for “nun,” meaning “Nazarenes,” was recently painted on homes of Christians in the city of Mosul, Iraq, by an organized terrorist group called IS (Islamic State). Then on July 17, Christians were given a choice: convert to Islam, pay a high tax, flee or die. 

VOM workers reported that some recited the shahada (Muslim confession of faith) and converted to Islam. None paid the tax to stay, and most fled the city to save their families’ lives. The believers fled without their belongings, many on foot.

Learn how you can help Christians in Iraq

“Because we have such a well-established in-country work and relationships with the indigenous church in Iraq, we were able to respond immediately. Those who had to leave everything really need our prayers and practical assistance.”

—COLE RICHARDS, VOM’S VICE PRESIDENT OF INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES

Yes, I would like to help displaced Christians in Iraq