Damascus Church Honors Bombing Victims as Christmas Nears Amid Lingering Fear
Hundreds of worshippers gathered at Mar Elias Church in Damascus this week to honour the victims of a deadly suicide attack in June. The bombing, which killed 25 people and injured 60 others, remains a painful memory as the congregation prepares for Christmas. Many now suspect the new transitional government, led by President Ahmad al-Scharaa, of being behind the violence.
The attack took place on June 22, when a man opened fire before detonating an explosive vest inside the church. It marked the first such bombing in Syria in years, occurring as a Sunni Islamist-dominated government sought to reassure religious minorities. Three men—Boutros Bechara, Gergis Bechara, and Milad Haddad—were later praised for confronting the bomber, likely preventing even greater loss of life.
The bombing has left deep scars. Juliette Alkashi, who lost her husband in the attack, described feeling numb as she focuses on caring for her 3-year-old son. Others, however, say the tragedy strengthened their faith, with one congregant recalling an intense spiritual moment during the explosion.
Father Yohanna Shehadeh, the church’s priest, admitted that fear lingers among his parishioners. Despite this, the congregation continues to pray for peace as Christmas nears. Christians, once making up about 10% of Syria’s population, have faced years of sectarian violence, driving many to flee the country.
The Mar Elias Church community remains united in grief and resilience. While suspicions about government involvement persist, worshippers are determined to honour the dead and hold onto their faith. For now, their focus is on healing as they approach the holiday season.
