Teen Allegedly Stabbed Sydney Bishop Charged with Terrorism

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with a terrorism offence following an alleged stabbing incident at Christ the Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley, Sydney. The attack occurred during a live-streamed service on Monday night, in which the bishop, Mar Mari Emmanuel, was allegedly targeted. The teenager, who sustained a finger injury during the incident, was restrained by individuals inside the church before being arrested by police.

The bishop suffered lacerations to his head, while Father Isaac Royel, who attempted to intervene, received cuts and a shoulder injury. The alleged offender was subsequently interviewed by investigators from the Joint Counter Terrorism Team at a medical facility and was charged with terrorism. He has been denied bail and is scheduled to appear before a bedside court hearing on Friday.

New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb classified the attack as a “terrorist incident” on Tuesday morning, a designation endorsed by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation. The incident sparked a riot outside the church, resulting in over 50 officers being injured. Among the injured were two officers who sustained facial and knee injuries, and one who suffered a broken jaw.

In response to the unrest, police arrested and charged a 19-year-old man with riot, affray, and damaging property during public disorder. Strike Force Dribbs, which is investigating the incident, anticipates making additional arrests related to the riot.

Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, currently recovering in hospital, expressed forgiveness toward the perpetrator in a statement on Thursday morning. He emphasized his commitment to prayer and assured his congregation that his condition was improving. “I will always pray for you. And whoever sent you to do this, I forgive them as well in Jesus’ mighty name,” he said.

Father Daniel Kochou, who also addressed the congregation, noted that Father Isaac Royel was “recovering well.” The community’s response reflects a commitment to peace and mercy, aligning with the biblical call to “defend the cause of the Lord” and “stand for the oppressed” (Micah 6:8; Proverbs 31:8-9).

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