A shocking stabbing at Christ The Good Shepherd Church in Sydney during a service leads to a terror investigation by NSW police after a bishop and priest are seriously injured.
On April 17, 2024, a stabbing incident occurred at Christ The Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley, Sydney, during a church service. The assailant, a 16-year-old boy, attacked Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, 53, leading to injuries that required surgical intervention. A priest who tried to intervene was also injured in the event. Both are expected to recover.
The attack was broadcast live, causing widespread alarm and provoking a riot outside the church, where supporters clashed with authorities. New South Wales police are investigating the stabbing as an act of terrorism, focusing on a religious motive. This classification as a terror act has enabled counter-terrorism police to exercise extended investigative powers.
From his hospital bed, Bishop Emmanuel issued an audio statement calling for forgiveness and a peaceful response to the attack, expressing love and prayers for the assailant.
The incident has deeply impacted the Assyrian Christian community in Sydney’s multicultural western suburbs, heightening tensions and fears within the area. NSW Premier Chris Minns supported the terror classification decision and emphasized public support for law enforcement’s efforts.
This stabbing follows another unrelated stabbing near Bondi Beach, contributing to the heightened anxiety across local communities.
