The Assyrian bishop who was attacked at an Australian church said that he was “doing fine” and told his attacker: “You’re my son, and you’ll always be in my prayers.”
In what Australian police called a terrorist attack, a 16-year-old entered Christ the Good Shepherd Church in the Sydney suburb of Wakeley during a liturgy on the evening of 15 April and stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, a leader in the Assyrian Church of the East. New South Wales police have the suspect in custody, but his identity has not been released due to laws protecting minor offenders.
Fr Isaac Royel and other church members were also injured during the attack in their attempts to protect the bishop. In a video announcement from Christ the Good Shepherd Church, Fr Daniel Kochou confirmed that Bishop Emmanuel endured “non-life-threatening injuries” and is “stable.”
Bishop Emmanuel said in the parish announcement, posted to YouTube, that “we need to be always thankful to Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ of Nazareth for whatever trials and tribulations we go through.” “We are carrying the cross,” he said. “Let us not forget that at all.” Speaking from his hospital bed, Emmanuel confirmed that he is “recovering very quickly” and said that “there is no need to be worried or concerned.” “For this young man, I say to you, you’re my son, and you’ll always be in my prayers,” he said, speaking to his attacker. “May the Lord Jesus forgive you, may the Lord Jesus bless you and show you the way, my dear son.”
He continued: “I forgive whoever has done this act, and I say to him you are my son, I love you, and I will always pray for you. And whoever sent you to do this, I forgive them as well.” Bishop Emmanuel emphasised that he has “nothing in my heart but love for everyone”, noting that Jesus taught that Christians should love their neighbours as themselves.