Damascus Church Commemorates Victims Ahead of Christmas

As Christmas approaches, Mar Elias Church on the outskirts of Damascus welcomed hundreds of worshippers, gathering to remember those lost in one of the most devastating assaults on Syria’s Christian community in recent years.

Under vigilant security, attendees participated in a Mass at the Greek Orthodox church in Dweil’a, where a suicide bombing claimed the lives of at least 25 individuals during Sunday services in June. The occasion was filled with sorrow, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to retain hope despite the lingering trauma.

Worshippers illuminated a vibrant Christmas tree in the church courtyard, adorned with neon lights and photographs of those who perished in the June 22 attack, now honored as martyrs by the congregation.

Among the memorialized were three individuals celebrated as heroes: brothers Boutros and Gergis Bechara, alongside fellow parishioner Milad Haddad, who bravely confronted the assailant, diverting him from the packed congregation moments before the detonation.

"If it weren't for their actions, the casualty count could have been far worse," said Imad Haddad, Milad's brother, who attended the memorial. He emphasized that this gathering held deeper significance than any festive decoration at home. "This is a message of peace and love, demonstrating our unyielding faith despite adversity."

Holidays Shadowed by Loss

For the families of the victims, the festive season carries little joy. Thana al-Masoud, widow of Boutros Bechara, recounted the frantic search for her husband in the aftermath of the blast.

"I never found him—neither alive nor intact," she reflected, sharing the pain of loss. "This holiday is overshadowed by grief, not just this year, but likely years to come."

Yet her faith provides comfort, believing that her husband and the others who defended the church sacrificed themselves for the safety of others. "Our Lord has chosen them to be saints," she stated. "Yet the distance remains tremendously difficult to bear."

A Disturbing Attack, Resurgent Fears

The bombing was a rare occurrence targeting a church in Syria, raising renewed concerns among Christians who have dwindled in number after a decade of conflict. This act of violence occurred during a fragile period as new Sunni Islamist leadership in Syria strives to reassure religious minorities following the ousting of former president Bashar Assad.

Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa has condemned such acts against minority groups but faces criticism regarding the limited control over armed factions now integrated into state forces. The previous year has seen several outbreaks of sectarian strife.

Authorities attributed the church assault to an Islamic State affiliate, mentioning that it also aimed to target a Shiite shrine. While IS did not claim direct responsibility, officials indicated that a lesser-known group’s actions were a front for the extremist organization.

Prior to the civil unrest beginning in 2011, Christians composed about 10% of Syria’s population. Years of turmoil, abductions, and church demolitions have pushed hundreds of thousands to seek refuge elsewhere. Today, numerous local families are contemplating fleeing once again.

Grief, Faith, and Hope for Peace

Juliette Alkashi, who lost her husband in the attack, experiences a constant ache of grief. Despite the ongoing war, she had returned to Syria in 2018 to marry him. Now, her primary focus is ensuring the safety of her three-year-old son.

"I have accepted whatever fate God has written for us," she said. "If someone prays and dies in a church, that was their destiny."

Others assert that such violence has only reinforced their faith. Survivor Hadi Kindarji remembered the chaos surrounding him, perceiving a divine presence amidst the turmoil. "God was still with us in the church," he added.

The church’s priest, Yohanna Shehadeh, acknowledged the pervasive sensation of fear. "Such feelings are natural," he stated. "They extend beyond Christians; they encompass all Syrians, irrespective of their faith."

As the Christmas season draws near, the community at Mar Elias Church continues to assemble—not for celebration, but for remembrance and prayer—holding onto the hope for a time when faith can flourish without fear and peace may finally prevail in Syria.