New Patriarch of the Chaldean Church. His Beatitude Mar Paulos III Nona

A New Patriarch for the Chaldean Catholic Church: A Moment of Hope and Renewal

On Sunday, April 12, the Chaldean Catholic Church marked a significant and hopeful moment in its history with the election of Archbishop Amel Nona as its new Patriarch. His election follows the resignation of Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako, announced on March 10, closing an important chapter of faithful leadership and opening the door to new beginnings.

The decision came during the Chaldean Synod held in Rome from April 9 to April 15, where bishops gathered in prayer and discernment to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit. In this spirit of unity and faith, Archbishop Nona was chosen to shepherd the Church through a time marked by both challenge and opportunity.

A New Name, A Sacred Responsibility

Upon his election, the new Patriarch chose the name Mar Paulos III Nona (Paul III), embracing a legacy while stepping into a future filled with responsibility. In accordance with Church tradition, he will formally request ecclesiastical communion from the Pope, affirming unity with the universal Church.

Just days before the election, the synod fathers were received in audience by Pope Leo XIV, highlighting the importance of this moment not only for the Chaldean Church but for the global Catholic community.

Gratitude for Faithful Leadership

As the Church looks ahead, it also pauses to give thanks. Deep gratitude is extended to Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako for his years of dedicated service. His leadership guided the Church through times of immense difficulty, offering stability, faith, and perseverance when it was needed most.

Prayers continue for his health and well-being, with appreciation for the lasting impact of his ministry.

A Shepherd Shaped by Trial and Faith

Born in 1968 in Alqosh, Iraq, Patriarch Mar Paulos III Nona is no stranger to hardship. Since 2009, he served as Archbishop of Mosul, leading his community during one of the most painful periods in recent history.

During the rise of ISIS in 2014, thousands of Christians were displaced, facing fear, uncertainty, and suffering. Yet even in those darkest moments, he remained a steadfast spiritual leader. His presence brought strength and hope, reminding the faithful to remain rooted in Christ despite adversity.

Reflecting on those years, he once described them as the “best time of my life”—a statement that speaks not to the absence of suffering, but to the profound experience of God’s grace in the midst of it. His witness revealed a deep faith that sees beyond hardship and recognizes the enduring presence of Christ.

Continued Service Across the World

More recently, Mar Paulos III Nona extended his ministry to the Chaldean faithful in Australia and New Zealand, where he continued to serve with pastoral care, compassion, and dedication. His leadership across different regions has strengthened his ability to guide a global Church community facing diverse challenges.

A Future Rooted in Unity and Hope

In a statement following the election, the synodal fathers expressed confidence that his leadership will strengthen the faith of believers, deepen unity within the Church, and renew its mission to bear witness to the Gospel.

As the Chaldean Catholic Church enters this new chapter, the faithful are united in prayer for their new Patriarch. They ask for wisdom, strength, and perseverance as he takes on this sacred role.

In this Easter season—a time of renewal and hope—the election of Mar Paulos III Nona stands as a powerful reminder: even in times of trial, faith endures, and new life emerges.