Patriarch Daniel: Damascus Church Attack Violates Sanctity of Life and Faith

Pat. Daniel of Romania [Credit: Basilica.ro]

BUCHAREST — Patriarch Daniel of the Romanian Orthodox Church has issued a solemn message of condolence and support following the devastating terrorist attack on the Orthodox Church of Saint Prophet Elijah (Mar Elias) in Damascus, Syria. At least 25 worshippers were martyred and many others were left seriously injured.

In a letter addressed to His Beatitude John X, Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, the Romanian Patriarch condemned the attack as a violation of both religious and human values.

“This act of violence that killed so many innocent worshippers contradicts the sacred gift of life and undermines the core religious and human values of compassion, peace, and dignity,” wrote Patriarch Daniel. He expressed deep sorrow on behalf of the Romanian Orthodox Church, extending solidarity with the grieving families and the wider Syrian Orthodox community.

The attack occurred on the evening of June 22, 2025, during a service inside the Mar Elias Church in Damascus, a historically significant place of worship for Syria’s Orthodox Christian minority. Authorities report that a suicide bomber entered the church during the service, detonating explosives that led to mass casualties among the faithful in attendance.

Patriarch Daniel offered prayers “to our Most-Compassionate God” for the repose of the departed, healing for the wounded, and comfort for the families of the victims.

The message concludes with a reaffirmation of spiritual brotherhood between the Romanian and Antiochian Churches, especially in times of suffering: “With brotherly love in Christ the Lord,” the Patriarch signed, mourning the loss as an attack not only on people, but on the dignity of worship and peace itself.

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