The Rev. Nadia Adonai, a pastor originally from Baghdad, Iraq, has discovered a newfound freedom to practice her faith in the United States after a challenging journey marked by persecution and hardship. Growing up in a multicultural household with a Georgian mother and an Assyrian father, her early life was steeped in religious devotion and family traditions. Now, she embraces her role as a spiritual leader, focusing on sharing her experiences and faith with others.
Early Life and Challenges in Iraq
In Baghdad, Nadia recalls the profound influence of her grandmother, who would pray with her rosary at dawn, and her father, whose quiet conversations with God ignited her own spiritual journey. Their family Bibles, written in Aramaic, Arabic, and Latin, reflected their deep-rooted Orthodox Christian beliefs. Attending a Catholic school connected to the St. George Parish, she was inspired by the nuns who taught her various subjects, including French.
As a teenager, Nadia found solace in being part of a worship team. “It was easier to practice the faith then,” she stated. However, as the influence of Shia Islam grew, she faced increasing restrictions on expressing her Christian beliefs. “Christians were forbidden from sharing about their faith beyond the church doors,” she explained. Despite these challenges, she pursued a career in television journalism, marrying at the age of 19 and eventually earning a master’s degree in media and politics.
Escape from Persecution
Nadia’s career as a television news reporter took her across the Middle East and into Russia, where she gained recognition for her work. Yet, the environment became increasingly hostile. One significant moment came when she was compelled to wear a hijab during Ramadan while preparing for a news broadcast. “I started crying and praying, telling God, ‘I’m sorry; it’s not me,’” she recalled, feeling the weight of her situation.
The conflict in Iraq led to a dramatic decline in the Christian population. “Only about 5 percent remain in Iraq,” she said, reflecting on the dangers faced by many in her community. After fleeing to Moscow, she hoped for greater freedom but found remnants of oppression lingering. One day, she returned home to find her apartment ransacked, illustrating the risks associated with her status as a foreigner.
Her experiences in Iraq and Russia were punctuated by threats and violence. “They threatened me and bombed my apartment three times because I was a Christian and a journalist,” she shared. Ultimately, she and her family sought refuge in the United States, where they could practice their faith openly.
A New Beginning in America
Upon arriving in the United States, Nadia transitioned from journalism to ministry. “When I came here, I became a pastor, and there was no more TV news,” she said. In 2014, she became a U.S. citizen and changed her last name to Adonai, signifying a fresh start. “The Lord gave (the name) to me so I can renounce everything old and start afresh,” she explained.
That same year, she completed her theological studies and received her pastoral certificate. Describing her new life as “a miracle from God,” Nadia reflected on a prophetic dream in which God told her she would be His voice. “I saw freedom of religion, worship, and speech,” she said, marveling at the opportunities available to her in her new home.
Ministry and Impact
Pastor Nadia’s ministry encompasses preaching at various local churches, serving residents in nursing homes, and leading an online ministry that connects with Christians practicing their faith in secret. “I can do more for the people over there being here,” she stated, highlighting the conversions to Christianity resulting from her outreach efforts. Recently, she celebrated a family’s decision to embrace Christianity through her online ministry.
Her interactions extend beyond spiritual guidance. She has provided support and comfort to those affected by violence, including a young woman in Kurdistan who survived an ISIS attack. “Jesus had protected her because he had plans for her in her new life as a Christian,” Nadia reassured her.
Kim Rude, a member of Grace Communion International, noted Nadia’s inspiring faith and her ability to connect with others. “She really has a gift of interacting with others. She likes people and is able to relate to where they are,” Rude said, praising Nadia’s generosity and her ability to share her culture through food.
Pastor Richard Siedschlag, who met Nadia through church, commented on her enthusiastic sermons, noting their focus on God’s provision and protection, themes that resonate deeply with her personal journey. “She wants people to know how blessed we are here, with our freedom of religion and speech,” he said, emphasizing the contrast with her past experiences.
Hope and Encouragement
Pastor Nadia aims to inspire others to appreciate the freedoms they enjoy while encouraging those in difficult situations. “When I preach the Gospel, I mix it with my experience to encourage others to appreciate this country and this life,” she explained. She emphasizes gratitude for everyday blessings such as electricity, water, and food.
With her lucrative career in journalism behind her, Nadia is dedicated to fulfilling the biblical command to “go and make disciples” of all nations. “That’s a commandment from God to every believer,” she affirmed. Above all, she seeks to provide hope to those struggling with addiction, homelessness, or feelings of despair. “Jesus is 24-7 available, and he never gives up on us,” she said, highlighting the transformative power of faith.
As she continues her ministry, Pastor Nadia remains committed to sharing her story and the message that “God looks at the heart,” offering a path to renewal and hope for all who seek it.