Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel Stabbed During Livestreamed Sermon
Conservative Assyrian Orthodox Christian Leader Injured in Attack
Incident Sparks Calls for Calm, Prayer
Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, a prominent conservative leader of the Assyrian Orthodox Church, was stabbed during a livestreamed sermon in Sydney, Australia, on Saturday, November 19, 2023.
The attack occurred at Christ the Good Assyrian Orthodox Church in Greenacre, a suburb of Sydney, while Bishop Emmanuel was presiding over a service. A video that emerged online appears to show the bishop being attacked by a man before the assailant was apprehended by worshippers.
Bishop Emmanuel, who was seriously injured in the attack, is part of an Assyrian Christian community that has faced persecution in the Middle East. He is known for his conservative views and opposition to same-sex marriage.
Assyrian Orthodox Church officials have condemned the attack and called for peace and unity. The New South Wales Premier, Chris Minns, also issued a statement calling for calm after the alleged attack.
Another priest was also injured in the incident, but his condition is not serious. The motive for the attack is still under investigation, and police have made one arrest.
The Assyrian Orthodox Christian community in Sydney is reeling from the attack and is seeking support. Bishop Emmanuel remains in critical condition in the hospital, and prayers are being offered for his recovery.
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