His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew expressed the deepest sorrow of the Ecumenical Patriarchate following the terrorist attack on the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Prophet Elijah in Dwel’a, Damascus. In a telephone conversation on Sunday evening with His Beatitude Patriarch John I of Antioch, the Ecumenical Patriarch, who is currently visiting the United Kingdom, unequivocally condemned the bombing, emphasizing that any act of terrorism—particularly against places of worship—is an assault on the peaceful coexistence of peoples, religions, and cultures.

His All-Holiness offered prayers for the repose of the souls of the innocent victims and extended his heartfelt condolences and sympathy to their families. He also expressed his sincere wishes for the swift recovery of those injured.