San Diego Displays Patriotism
Chaldeans, Muslims Hold Services
POSTED: 9:24 p.m. PDT September 14, 2001
SAN DIEGO -- Members of San Diego's Chaldean and Arab-American community are dealing with both the tragedy of this week's events and the suspicious eyes of some fellow Americans, 10News reported.
St. Peter's Chaldean Catholic Church in Rancho San Diego held a 12-hour prayer and meditation vigil Friday.
The church has American flags prominently displayed as a symbol of their allegiance to the United States. Many church members dressed in red, white and blue.
Chaldeans are a Catholic group originating primarily from Iraq. However, they do not consider themselves to be Arab, 10News reported.
"It is most difficult, because this is our adopted country, and we are all American citizens, and we are grieving with everybody," the Rev. Michael Bazzi (pictured) said.
Chaldean businessman Imad Bakeer also expressed some frustration. "I've been here 30 years, and we are all American. We are sharing this tragedy. This is a very sad thing," Bakeer said.
Meanwhile, another prayer service for Muslims was held at the Imam Ali Center in Lakeside Friday.
"We are American Muslims. We share the pain," Mohammad Alqazwini said.
The American flag could also be seen hanging from a sign in front of the center.
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St. Peter's Chaldean Catholic Church in Rancho San Diego held a 12-hour prayer and meditation vigil Friday.
The church has American flags prominently displayed as a symbol of their allegiance to the United States. Many church members dressed in red, white and blue.
Chaldeans are a Catholic group originating primarily from Iraq. However, they do not consider themselves to be Arab, 10News reported.
"It is most difficult, because this is our adopted country, and we are all American citizens, and we are grieving with everybody," the Rev. Michael Bazzi (pictured) said.
Chaldean businessman Imad Bakeer also expressed some frustration. "I've been here 30 years, and we are all American. We are sharing this tragedy. This is a very sad thing," Bakeer said.
Meanwhile, another prayer service for Muslims was held at the Imam Ali Center in Lakeside Friday.
"We are American Muslims. We share the pain," Mohammad Alqazwini said.
The American flag could also be seen hanging from a sign in front of the center.
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