DC News Conference Today, Monday, July 23, 1 P.M. -- Delegation leaving for Baghdad Tuesday, July 24

Contact: Christian Defense Coalition, 202-547-1735, 540-538-4741 cell

WASHINGTON, July 23 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Christian Defense Coalition will lead an historic prayer delegation to Baghdad, leaving Tuesday, July 24.  This Christian prayer delegation has been officially welcomed by the Iraqi government and will be their guests in Baghdad.

The Christian Defense Coalition will hold a news conference on Monday, July 23, at 1:00 P.M. to discuss this groundbreaking visit.

The location of the news conference is at 109 2nd Street NE in Washington, D.C., directly behind the United States Supreme Court.

The Coalition has worked for months to arrange this trip, and in a letter hand-delivered to Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, Rev. Patrick Mahoney, speaking for the Coalition, says, "What happens in the next few months will have a profound impact on the future course of Iraq, the United States, and the entire region.  In response to this critical hour, it is essential that we urgently humble ourselves and look to God for His sovereign grace, blessing and wisdom in all that we do."  (See Prime Minister al-Maliki letter.)

Upon returning from Baghdad, the Coalition will be asking President Bush and Congress to call for a National Day of Prayer and Fasting for the war in Iraq before the September Congressional briefing by General Petraeus. (See Proposed draft for A National Day of Prayer.)

Rev. Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, comments, "Now is the time for Americans to lay our political differences aside concerning the war in Iraq and humbly seek God for His direction.  Although there has been much debate, discussion and disagreement in our country regarding events in Iraq, there are many things Americans are united on -- such as justice and mercy which will always triumph over terror and fear.  We can also agree that the violence and bloodshed in Iraq must come to an end.  This historic prayer initiative offers a unique opportunity to come together in one voice before God and leave our political differences at the water's edge.

"It is important for the people of Iraq to know that the faith community of America stands with them during these challenging and difficult times."

For more in information or interviews call:

Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney at 202.547.1735    Cell:   540.538.4741