Yohannan Sulaqa, a cleric from the Church of the East, journeyed to Rome to profess his Catholic faith, which resulted in his ordination as bishop. The pivotal event took place under the auspices of Pope Julius III, who recognized Sulaqa's desire to establish a Catholic presence among the Assyrian people. This ordination was not merely a personal milestone; it represented a larger movement towards unity within the fragmented Christian communities of the region. Sulaqa's commitment to Catholicism provided a new spiritual anchor for the Assyrian faithful, many of whom were seeking clarity amidst a complex and changing religious landscape. The ceremony itself featured traditional Catholic rites, signifying both acceptance and differentiation from the existing practices in the Church of the East.

The geographical context of this event also plays a critical role. During this era, the Middle East was a melting pot of various religious beliefs and political turmoil. Each sect of Christianity faced daunting challenges, including theological disputes and external pressures from rising powers in Europe. Sulaqa's journey to Rome and his subsequent ordination represented hope for many who sought to preserve their ecclesiastical heritage while embracing new theological frameworks. The formation of the Chaldean Catholic Church marked a critical juncture in the Eastern Christian experience, opening pathways for dialogue and unity.

Furthermore, Sulaqa became the first bishop of the Chaldean Catholic Church, serving a dual role as a spiritual leader and a reformer. His leadership style encouraged a blend of indigenous customs with Catholic teachings, ensuring the retention of local identity while fostering a new ecclesiastical authority. Following his ordination, Sulaqa was successful in rallying support among the Assyrian population, many of whom began to view the Catholic Church as a potential protector of their interests and traditions amidst a rapidly changing world.