Memorial Liturgy Held for Martyrs of Mar Elias…

Damascus, July 25, 2025 — A Divine Liturgy commemorating the 40th day since the tragic massacre at Mar Elias Church in Dweilaa–Damascus was celebrated today with the blessing of His Beatitude John X, Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch and All the East.

Presiding over the liturgy was Metropolitan Nicolas (Baalbaki) of Hama, joined by Bishops Romanos Hanna, Patriarchal Vicar; Moussa (Khoury); Arsanios (Dahdal); and Moussa (Al-Khassi), Patriarchal Assistants. A number of clergy concelebrated the service, held at the same church where the incident occurred.

The families of the martyrs, parishioners, and a large assembly of faithful attended the liturgy, offering prayers for the repose of the departed, healing of the wounded, and consolation of grieving hearts.

At the conclusion of the service, the prayer of mercy (Trisagion) was offered for the souls of the martyrs. Metropolitan Nicolas conveyed the condolences and love of Patriarch John X to the families and expressed prayers for peace in Syria and throughout the world.