(ANS – Toronto) – The Salesian Parish of  St. Benedict’s in Toronto began the process of sponsoring a family of Iraqi refugees in summer 2010.  On 15 April last, after many mishaps, an Iraqi family finally reached Toronto, where they can now begin a new life, thanks to the help of many people.

Ahlam and her daughters, Lara, Maryam and Roz, were welcomed at the airport by Fr. John Puntino, Fr. Mike Pace and the parish Settlement Committee, Antoniette Pace, Susan Sala, and Kay Saleke.

This Iraqi family has had a somewhat troubled history, typical of the millions of people today, in every part of the world, who are living in situations of war. The family fled Iraq for Syria where they lived for 2 years, and finally made the treacherous trek from Damascus to Beirut by bus, then on to Rome en route to Toronto. They arrived exhausted but grateful to have a fresh start in Canada. Unfortunately, they buried their husband and father in Syria just weeks ago.

Salesian family spirit has been at work as the parish community anticipated their arrival. The parish is committed to providing financial and moral support to the family for one year. Various parish groups and countless parishioners have donated time and treasure to provide an apartment, one year’s rent, home furnishings, clothing, guidance through the many aspects of enculturation, hospitality and friendship. 

The Salesian community of Toronto, moreover, celebrates Ahlam’s first birthday in Canada, April 18.

Published 02/05/2013