(AINA) -- The Islamic State (ISIS) has driven 200,000 Assyrians from their homes and villages in north Iraq. They are sleeping in open fields and abandoned structures, lacking food, water, shelter, clothing and medicine. They have lost their homes and their property. Their churches have been destroyed.

But nothing can stop love.

Just north of Arbel in the Assyrian town of Ankawa, where 70,000 Assyrians have taken refuge, there was a wedding at St. Thomas Church on Monday. Ivan and Susan married. Their joy was overflowing.

Asked why the married in such a precarious time, Susan said "nothing can stop life!"

The wedding reception was held in an unfinished building. According to the newlyweds, they could not be happier even if the reception was held at the grandest ballroom. They wished everyone a happy life and said that love is the only and truest link between people.