Patriarch Louis Raphael Sako Submits His Resignation
Patriarchate Media
Two years ago, when I turned 75, I began thinking about submitting my resignation, and I had already discussed it with the late Pope Francis, but he encouraged me to remain. Yesterday morning, March 9, 2026, I decided, in full freedom, to submit it to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, so that I may quietly dedicate myself to prayer, writing, and simple service. He accepted it, and I requested that it be officially announced today at noon, March 10.
To prevent any misinterpretation, I confirm that no one forced me to do this; rather, I requested the resignation of my own will.
I led the Chaldean Church under extremely difficult circumstances and amid great challenges. I preserved the unity of its institutions and spared no effort in defending it and the rights of Iraqis and Christians, taking positions and maintaining a presence both inside and outside the country. My 13 years as Patriarch were years of loving pastoral care, follow-up, and growing up.
I thank God for the grace of love that He bestowed upon me, granting me love in the eyes of many and blessing me with beautiful moments. I also extend special thanks to my family and to those with whom I lived as a priest in Mosul, a bishop in Kirkuk, and a patriarch in Baghdad. They were truly my real family, and I am grateful to them.
I would like to especially thank my assistants, His Excellency Bishop Basilios Yaldo, Secretary Ekhlass Macdassy, the priests of Baghdad, and the staff of the Patriarchate. I will not forget them in my prayers. I also sincerely apologize to anyone whom I may have offended.
In these difficult times, I hope that the leadership of the Chaldean Catholic Church will be entrusted to a patriarch who possesses solid theological culture, courage, and wisdom—someone who believes in renewal, openness, and dialogue, and who also has a sense of humour. I will respect him and never interfere in his work
I am confident that God will take care of His Church.
I wrote my testament when I was still a priest and have renewed it several times. I own about forty million Iraqi dinars, five thousand US dollars, and five thousand euros from my salaries during 52 years of priestly service, in addition to another sum which is my share from the sale of my family home in Mosul. I do not own a house or a car, but my true wealth is my devoted service and the 45 books and many articles I have published.
Remember me in your prayers.
