Patriarch Kirill expresses condolences following terrorist attack at Antiochian Church in Damascus

Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus’ sent a message to His Beatitude Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East in connection with the terrorist attack that took place on June 23, 2025, at the Church of the Holy Prophet Elijah in the Syrian capital, Damascus. He emphasized the tragedy of the event, stating: “Once again, the blood of Christians has been shed on the streets of ancient Damascus.” This was reported by the source Orthodox Times.

According to reports, peaceful worshippers gathered for Sunday liturgy were killed and wounded in the attack.

“With profound sorrow, I learned of the terrorist attack at the Church of the Holy Prophet Elijah in Damascus, which resulted in numerous casualties and injuries among peaceful civilians,” Patriarch Kirill noted in his letter.

On behalf of the Russian Orthodox Church and personally, Patriarch Kirill extended his condolences to Patriarch John X and the entire Antiochian Church:

“I express to you and the long-suffering Antiochian Church my deepest and heartfelt condolences. I hope that every possible measure will be taken to ensure that those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice.”

In conclusion, Patriarch Kirill offered prayers for the victims, the wounded, and those who mourn:

“May the God of peace and the Father of mercies grant rest in the heavenly mansions to His slain servants, healing to the wounded, and comfort to all who grieve.”

It should be recalled that on June 22, 2025, during the Sunday liturgy at the Church of the Holy Prophet Elijah in Damascus (Syria), a bloody terrorist attack was carried out by a member of the radical Islamist organization “Islamic State.” As a result, 22 people were killed. The attacker stormed into the church, opened fire on the congregation, and then detonated an explosive device attached to his body.