Sydney Church Stabbing: Bishop Forgives Alleged Attacker
In a heartfelt response to being stabbed during a live-streamed sermon, Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel of Sydney expressed his forgiveness towards his 16-year-old attacker, as reported by AFP.
The incident, which occurred on Monday, saw Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel assaulted by a 16-year-old individual, triggering a tumult among the followers of the Assyrian Christian Church in western Sydney. The upheaval resulted in around 30 injuries, including a police officer who suffered a broken jaw.
In a heartfelt YouTube video, the bishop expressed forgiveness towards the assailant, stating, “I forgive whoever has done this act, and I say to him: You are my son, I love you, and I will always pray for you. And whoever sent you to do this, I forgive them as well.” He also reassured his supporters that he's doing well and recuperating swiftly, urging them not to worry.
Australian authorities, however, classified the brutal knife attack as a “religiously motivated terrorist” act. New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb labeled it as an act of religious extremism that instilled fear among both the churchgoers and those watching the service online.
Dr. Jamal Rifi, a local doctor in western Sydney who's been in touch with the teenager's family, conveyed their shock and disbelief at the incident. The boy's mother disclosed that her son struggled with anger and mental health issues, shedding light on the complexities surrounding the situation.
This assault at the church marked the second stabbing incident in Sydney within a span of three days.
Just days prior, a knife attack occurred at a bustling shopping center near Bondi Beach, resulting in the deaths of six individuals, including the perpetrator. During the rescue operation, the assailant was shot by a police officer.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese commended the courageous actions of those who intervened during Saturday's attack to avert further casualties, including security guard Muhammad Taha, who sustained injuries after being stabbed in the abdomen.
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