Maronite Catholic priest recovers from injuries after attack at rectory in Philadelphia, U.S.

PHILADELPHIA, U.S.— A Maronite Catholic priest, Father  Andrew El-Tabchi, is recovering from the injuries he was subjected to after a man attacked him at the rectory in Philadelphia, U.S., across the street from the St. Maron Maronite Catholic Church, at which he is the pastor.

It was reported that the attacker punched and slapped El-Tabchi but was eventually pushed out of the rectory. It was stated that the alleged assailant fled the property, going west on Ellsworth Street on the south side of the city.

In a letter to parishioners following the attack, the priest declared that the attack only strengthened his resolve to protect the parish and stand up for the safety of all of his parishioners.

“This is my duty, and I will not waver in defending the sacred space,” El-Tabchi added.

The police report mentioned that the priest suffered back pain after the incident. The Philadelphia ABC affiliate reported that he needed to walk with a cane following the attack.

El-Tabchi is pressing charges against the assailant.

“God is both merciful and just. Mercy without justice is dead, and justice without mercy is ruthless,” the priest concluded.

The South Detectives Division of the Philadelphia Police Department is handling the investigation.

El-Tabchi stated the suspected attacker is a Middle Eastern male with gray hair and a stocky build, the police reported.