9th Annual Hope for Iraqi Christians Gala, “Adopt a Very Needy Family”
–160 New Families Adopted, truly a Blessed Night!
Extending a Lifeline to the Birthplace of Christianity–Making it the most successful Hope Gala to date!
El Cajon, CA – FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2025 – The Hall of St. Peter’s Chaldean Cathedral was dressed in festive opulence welcoming the 9th Annual Hope for Iraqi Christians Fundraiser Dinner Gala, which achieved a monumental success as attendees opened their hearts to adopt 160 new very needy Christian families in Iraq, securing one full year of vital support at $100/month for their survival and livelihood.
The evening, focused on ensuring the neediest Christian communities of Iraq endure, was marked by solemn reflection, passionate appeals, and overwhelming generosity, highlighting the Hope mission to help its neediest and prevent the precious birthplace of Christianity from becoming its graveyard.
A Night of Reflection and Commitment
The gala began with a powerful Moment of Silence, led by Host Afaf Konja, to honor the lives and service of Iraqi Bishop Thabet Habib, persecuted Nigerian priests and laity, and American hero Charlie Kirk. Setting the stage for the Gala, Afaf said,”The Christian communities in Iraq... need more than our thoughts and prayers; they need our lifeline of support to survive and rebuild their lives today. You are not simply donating; you are restoring life itself by your Love, through your charity."
Key Highlights of the Hope Event
● Impactful Speakers: The evening kicked off with special remarks from Yvette Isaac , President of Roads of Success, who praised the audience on their heritage as the "Children of Abraham, “ the organization's charity work was highlighted in a featured video.
● The Power of HOPE: The mission of the organization was further illuminated by the three pillars of the Hope Gala's Board: Dr. John Kasawa, Dr. Noori Barka, and Shamasha Samir Salem. Dr. Kasawa cheerfully detailed the life-changing HOPE Program. Highlighting the 4 100%, which is 100% volunteer run, 100% of donations received go to most needy (any administrative costs, which are minmial are covered by Sponsors), Dr. Barka presented compelling evidence of the impact the funds achieve, while he and Shamasha Salem delivered a passionate call to action, which led directly to the successful family adoptions.
● Community and Clergy Support: The event received a warm welcome to and from local community leaders, including Andrew Hayes, Lakeside Union School District Boardmember, representing Supervisor Joel Anderson and El Cajon Mayor, Bill Wells. Beloved clergy members, representing local Parishes on behalf of His Excellency Bishop Emmanuele Shalita, were recognized, alongside major supporters like the Knights of Columbus. the Sponsors of Hope, Friends of the Gala, as well as the Hope Volunteers, who all do their part to ensure its continuity and success.
● Engagement and Generosity: The evening included a Live Auction introduced by Jesse Hernandez that brought excitement to the night, and a segment highlighting the Kids to Kids Program by the fourth pillar of its board, Simon Yacoub, designed to capture the audience's affection. The event concluded with a Raffle featuring special prizes with a minimum value of $100, all from Chaldean owned businesses and entrepreneurs.
● Dinner Blessing: The Dinner Blessing was offered by Father Andrew Younan, who spoke on the significance of little-known Chaldean Saints. Also endearingly known as Father Andy to all who know and love him, made guests roar with laughter at each other and themselves!
Restoring Life Through Love
The generosity of the guests ensured that over 150 more families will receive the fundamental support they need to be able to buy food, medicine and maintain their homes and shelter after years of invasions and persecution. God knows that nothing is more important, more healing and life-transforming than the gift of Love. And that is precisely what manifested!
For this, the Hope leadership extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who attended and all who support. This is a family-community grassroot effort, from our American home, back to our foundational home, of Iraq. We thank you and we thank our Lord, Jesus Christ. Until next year 2026
In His name,
Hope for Iraqi Christians Board
Please join us in helping the suffering Iraqi Christian families—displaced by ISIS—in their time of need. Together, we will provide hope for the Iraqi Christian refugees.
In 2014, the terror group, ISIS, marked all Christian homes in Iraq with— —the Arabic letter “N” for followers of Jesus of Nazareth. Then, ISIS issued an ultimatum: CONVERT TO ISLAM, LEAVE OR DIE BY THE SWORD
Over 200,000 innocent Iraqi Christians were forced to flee from the ISIS genocide. In 48 hours, they left behind their homes, businesses, jobs and dreams. Since July of 2014, Iraqi Christians have been living in refugee camps in northern Iraq and neighboring countries, with little hope of a future. These families are now desperate for food, shelter and clothing.
They need your help. Please join us to participate in any of the following three programs.
Provide basic needs for a refugee family in a monthly basis. Learn More →
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