Patr. Theophilos III Holds Memorial for Victims of Terrorist Attack in Jordan

JERUSALEM — Patr. Theophilos III of Jerusalem celebrated a Memorial Trisagion on October 24 for those killed in a terrorist attack in Jordan’s Karak area the previous day, as the Jerusalem Patriarchate mourned the victims alongside Jordanian society.

The service took place at the Patriarchal and Central Monastic Church of Sts. Constantine and Helen. Patr. Theophilos prayed for the repose of those killed, the consolation of their families, and peace and reconciliation in the affected region.

The attack also prompted expressions of solidarity from Orthodox leaders and Greek officials. On October 23, Patr. Theophilos received telephone calls from Ecumenical Patr. Bartholomew, Abp. Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece, the President of Greece, and several Greek government ministers, along with the president of the PASOK political party. They conveyed condolences and offered support to the Jerusalem Patriarchate and the victims’ bereaved families.

The Patriarchate described the attack as a source of profound sorrow, emphasizing the bonds of peaceful coexistence and brotherhood in Jordan despite the tragedy. It called upon the Lord to grant the slain eternal rest and their loved ones strength and consolation.

Abp. Isidoros of Hierapolis, hegumen of the Brotherhood of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and Elder Sacristan, also offered a memorial prayer at the Katholikon of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Previously, the UOJ reported that seven people were killed and 34 wounded in an attack on a Greek Orthodox church in Jordan.