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Father Frans van der Lugt: A Life of Service and Sacrifice

Guy Powell

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Published in Abducted In Iraq: A Priest In Baghdad

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Abducted in Iraq: A Priest in Baghdad

by Elliot Carlson

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Language	:	English
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On April 7, 2014, Father Frans van der Lugt, a Dutch priest who had spent nearly 50 years in Iraq, was abducted from his home in the Karrada district of Baghdad. His body was found two days later, bearing signs of torture.

Father van der Lugt's death was a tragedy, not only for his family and friends, but for the entire Iraqi community. He was a beloved figure, known for his tireless work on behalf of the poor and marginalized, and for his commitment to interfaith dialogue and reconciliation.

A Life of Service

Father van der Lugt was born in the Netherlands in 1938. He joined the Dominican Order in 1958, and was ordained a priest in 1965. In 1968, he was sent to Iraq, where he would spend the rest of his life.

Father van der Lugt's work in Iraq focused on education and social welfare. He founded several schools and orphanages, and provided assistance to the poor and needy, regardless of their religious affiliation.

Father van der Lugt was also a strong advocate for interfaith dialogue and reconciliation. He believed that Christians and Muslims could live together in peace and harmony, and he worked tirelessly to build bridges between the two communities.

The Abduction and Murder

In 2014, Iraq was in the midst of a civil war. The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) had seized control of large swaths of the country, and was carrying out atrocities against civilians.

On April 7, 2014, ISIS militants stormed Father van der Lugt's home in Karrada. They abducted him and took him to an unknown location.

Two days later, Father van der Lugt's body was found in a garbage dump. He had been shot in the head and chest.

The Legacy of Father Frans van der Lugt

Father Frans van der Lugt's death was a profound loss for Iraq. He was a man of peace and compassion, who dedicated his life to serving others.

Father van der Lugt's legacy lives on in the many lives he touched. His schools and orphanages continue to provide education and support to the poor and marginalized. His work for interfaith dialogue and reconciliation continues to inspire others to work for peace and understanding.

Father Frans van der Lugt was a true servant of God. He lived a life of service and sacrifice, and he died as a martyr for peace.