Patr. Theophilos III Visits Injured Survivors After Leading Funeral for Nine Christians in Jordan

KARAK, JORDAN — Patr. Theophilos III of Jerusalem visited injured survivors of the October 23 terrorist attack on St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church on October 25, praying for their recovery and offering support to their families. Accompanied by Metr. Isychios, priests, and local dignitaries, the Patriarch visited Prince Ali bin Al-Hussein Military Hospital and the Italian Hospital, where the wounded are receiving treatment.

During the visits, Patr. Theophilos prayed that the Lord would grant the injured healing, health, and strength. The attack claimed nine lives and left approximately 40 people wounded after three gunmen opened fire on mourners gathered for a funeral at the church in Hammoud village.

Earlier that day, Patr. Theophilos presided over the funeral for the nine Christians killed in the attack. Thousands gathered in Karak to mourn the victims, with people from different religious communities joining the grieving families in prayer and remembrance.

The funeral was attended by members of the Jerusalem Patriarchate’s Brotherhood, local clergy, and Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa of the Latin Patriarchate. The victims’ coffins, draped in Jordanian flags, were carried through the crowds as mourners accompanied them to their final resting place.

Following the service, members of Jordan’s royal family offered condolences to Patr. Theophilos and the bereaved families. Those present included Queen Rania Al Abdullah, Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah, Princess Salma bint Abdullah, and Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad. In a video from the aftermath of the attack, Queen Rania embraces and comforts the daughter of one of those killed.

As the country mourns the nine dead, prayers continue for the repose of the departed, the recovery of the injured, and consolation for their families. The Patriarch’s hospital visits and the funeral brought religious leaders and members of the wider community together in support of those affected.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Metr. Saba offered condolences after an attack killed eight at a Jordanian church.