In a startling turn of events during the tranquil Sunday mass at the Church of the East in Sydney, Australia, Mar Mari Emmanuel, who is an esteemed figure in the Assyrian and Christian community, found himself at the center of a harrowing ordeal on that Apr. 15.
A 16-year-old assailant, whose identity remains concealed due to his age, unleashed an inexplicable wave of violence, plunging a congregation in prayer into chaos. The assailant’s frenzied attack wasn’t selective; it targeted not only Mar Mari but also Father Isaac Royel, another clergy member, along with several other innocent worshipers.
In the midst of the mayhem, Bishop Mar Mari, despite being wounded, exhibited an inspiring blend of courage and compassion. Witnesses recount his serene gesture of extending a hand in prayer over his assailant, a display of forgiveness even in the throes of pain and confusion.
The entire tragedy unfolded before the eyes of the world, captured mercilessly on a live stream, providing an unflinching testament to the horror that transpired within the sanctity of the church walls.
Following the assault, Mar Mari was whisked away to the hospital, his condition stable and still recovering from the attack. Meanwhile, Father Isaac, was released from medical care before Mar Mari.
Yet, in the face of adversity, Mar Mari’s absolute message echoed from his hospital bed, a testament to his faith and unwavering spirit.
“I will always pray for you. And whoever sent you to do this, I forgive them as well in Jesus’s mighty name,” Mar Mari said. “I’m doing fine, recovering very quickly. We thank the Lord Jesus.”
As the investigation delves deeper into motives behind this heinous act, law enforcement officers have designated this as an act of terrorism, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The incident has sparked debates about the safety and security of places of worship.
Amidst the anguish, Mar Mari’s exceptional response has emerged as a beacon of inspiration. His act of forgiveness and resilience has touched the hearts of many, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of the human spirit.
I pray that no one goes through what Mar Mari went through that day. I’m glad to see people bringing attention to this situation, rather than ignoring it because it is a situation not to be ignored, but rather to be learned from.”
— Junior Danya Mamo
Upon hearing that Mar Mari Emmanuel got stabbed, Danya Mamo, a junior at Niles North, expressed her frustration and disappointment.
“Upon hearing that our beloved Mar Mari Emmanuel got stabbed, I was very disappointed and frustrated, yet I was not surprised,” Mamo said. “People may paint the picture that Christians are never persecuted, let this be proof that persecution exists in all groups, even if it might not be to the same degree. I pray that no one goes through what Mar Mari went through that day. I’m glad to see people bringing attention to this situation, rather than ignoring it because it is a situation not to be ignored, but rather to be learned from.”
In the aftermath of this tragic event, communities both near and far have rallied around Mar Mari Emmanuel, offering prayers, support, and messages of solidarity. As he continues his recovery journey, Mar Mari’s resilience and grace that he had displayed in the face of adversity serve as a reminder of the power of compassion and the indomitable spirit of humanity.
While the scars of this ordeal may linger, Mar Mari’s spirit remains unbroken, inspiring countless individuals to embrace forgiveness, empathy, and love in the face of hatred and violence. As the world reflects on this harrowing incident, may Mar Mari’s story serve as a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit and a beacon of hope for a brighter tomorrow.
