18 April 2024
Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, who was stabbed during a service at a Sydney church on Monday, has released an audio message assuring the community of his swift recovery and offering forgiveness to his attacker.
The attack, livestreamed online and leaving four injured, is being investigated by authorities as a religiously motivated act of terrorism. It sparked unrest outside the church, where supporters of the bishop gathered.
A 16-year-old boy, also sustaining injuries, has been arrested but not yet charged. Authorities haven’t disclosed the suspect’s suspected beliefs.
In a four-minute audio clip shared by the church on social media, Bishop Emmanuel expresses forgiveness “whoever has done this act” and prays for them and “whoever sent them.” He emphasizes his well-being and urges against worry or concern.
New South Wales Police previously stated the bishop’s fortunate survival after the stabbing during a mass at the Assyrian Orthodox Church. Graphic footage of the attack and its aftermath circulated online, drawing a large crowd to the church.
The resulting violence injured two police officers, destroyed ten police vehicles, and endangered paramedics. Police vow to apprehend and charge those involved, with their first arrest being a 19-year-old man on Wednesday.
Authorities and community leaders are urging calm and discouraging further violence.
Bishop Emmanuel also appeals to his supporters for cooperation with law enforcement. “Act Christ-like,” he implores. “The Lord Jesus never taught us to fight or retaliate.”
