WASHINGTON -- Faith organizations plan to hold a prayer vigil in front of the White House in support of persecuted Christians and religious freedom for all in Iraq. The groups will be joined by staff from the Embassy of Iraq and Christians in Iraq via a conference call. The prayer vigil will be on Monday, February 14, at 11:00 A.M., in front of the White House on Pennsylvania Ave. NW. This prayer event begins the observance of "The Rogation of the Ninevites", which is one of the oldest traditions in Christianity. The "Rogation" finds its ancient roots in the Prophet Jonah and is observed by Assyrian, Chaldean and Syriac Christians in Iraq and around the world. The "Rogation" is February 14-16 and includes 3 days of fasting, prayer and repentance. There will be "Rogation" observances all across America praying for religious freedom in Iraq. The groups will also be praying for religious freedom and liberty in Iraq for all religious minorities. Kris Keating, Director of Hillside Missions, who is in Iraq and will be leading the prayer from that country states,

"Hillside Missions Organization is in Iraq in order to be invested in the cause of religious freedom for the benefit of the Iraqi people. "The people of Iraq need to be free to choose and express their faith without fear of persecution. We are honored to be invited to participate in prayer, dialogue and events intended to increase international awareness of the problems facing religious minorities in Iraq. "I am looking forward to working with diverse Christian communities in Iraq. There is a rich Christian heritage in that country. The international community must act in order to prevent the extinction of religious minorities in Iraq."

For more information or interviews call: Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney at 540.538.4741.