Chaldean Catholic Church: Patriarchs

The patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church is the supreme head of the church, and is elected by a synod of bishops, before being confirmed by the Pope. The position was established in 1553 after a group of Assyrian bishops from the Church of the East were dissatisfied with the leadership of their church. The first patriarch, John VIII Sulaqa, was consecrated as 'Patriarch of the Chaldeans' by Pope Julius III. The patriarch is responsible for overseeing the church's liturgical and doctrinal life, as well as its pastoral care and social outreach. He also represents the church to the Holy See and to other Christian churches. He is a significant figure in the Middle East, and plays an important role in promoting peace and understanding between Christians and Muslims. In 1724, the patriarch's title 'Patriarch of Babylon of the Chaldeans', which was to become controversial, was adopted. In 2022, this was changed to 'Patriarch of Baghdad of the Chaldeans'. The patriarch also holds the historical titles of archbishop of Babylon, and archbishop of Baghdad. The position claims continuity with the old patriarchs of the Church of the East.