Bombing of Syrian church draws global outrage

A deadly attack on a Greek Orthodox Church in Syria has been met with widespread horror.

At least 25 people were killed on Sunday during a service at St Elias Greek Orthodox Church in Damascus by a suicide bomber.

Syria is 18th in the Open Doors World Watch List 2025, which ranks the worst countries for the persecution of Christians. Open Doors’ partner group in Syria is offering trauma counselling to those affected by the bombing.

Prayers in Damascus

One Syrian Christian who is a local partner of Open Doors commented: “This incident will make Christians and church leaders live on their tiptoes waiting for the next attack”.

He added: “We pray that the international community and the blood of these martyrs will advocate for the rest of the Christians in Syria.”

Jean Bahri, a Christian living in Damascus, stated: “We’re in a country that must protect everyone”.

‘Appalling atrocity’

The UK’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, David Smith, called the attack: “an appalling atrocity”.

The MP for North Northumberland added: “The idea that anyone should be targeted for an horrific attack like this for any reason, let alone simply because of their faith is repellent.

“We can’t let evil win. My prayers are with those affected.”

Safety of Christians

Christian Solidarity Worldwide CEO Scot Bower said: “We extend our sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of this heinous attack, and wish the injured a swift and full recovery.”

He urged Syria’s Government to ensure “that all Syrian citizens receive protection from sectarian violence and equal treatment under the law”.

The Greek Foreign Ministry also called on the authorities in Syria to “implement measures to guarantee the safety of Christian communities and all religious groups, allowing them to live without fear”.

Syrian Interior Ministry spokesman Noureddine Al-Baba stated: “The security of places of worship is a red line”.

‘Severe challenges’

A report this month by International Christian Concern (ICC),‘Troubling Trends: Escalating Persecution of Christians in Africa’, has highlighted an “alarming” increase in persecution across the continent this year.

ICC President Jeff King urged Christians worldwide to stand in prayer and advocacy for those suffering: “The Church in Africa is facing some of the most severe challenges of our time. We must not look away. These are our brothers and sisters.”

Report author Dr Linda Burkle added: “we must advocate, however possible, for the persecuted Christians and pray for them to live in peace and security”.