In Daramsuq, Prayers and Pain as Syria’s Christians Mourn the Martyrs of Mar Elias

DARAMSUQ (DAMASCUS) — In the soft glow of Mar Elias Church, nestled in the heart of Daramsuq (Damascus)’s Douileh neighborhood, dozens of mourners gathered, on Friday morning, to pray for the souls of thirteen innocent Christians who lost their lives in Sunday’s brutal terrorist attack. The atmosphere was heavy with grief—and with quiet resilience. 

The prayer service, led by a circle of devoted clergy, was deeply moving. Worshippers, shoulder to shoulder, lit candles and bowed their heads, whispering the names of those they loved. The air trembled with sorrow, but also with a defiant reverence—a determination to show that faith endures, even when shaken by tragedy. 

“They came here to worship. That’s all. Their only crime was their faith,” said Joseph Daoud, a friend of one of the martyrs. “This church is sacred to us, and they martyred in its heart. We will never forget that.” 

Many came not just to grieve, but to stand in solidarity with Syria’s Christian community—a community that has too often borne the burden of violence with little protection. The attack on Mar Elias was not only an act of terror, but a message aimed at sowing fear and isolation. Yet the message that rang louder Monday evening was one of unity. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rita Elias, a relative of one of the victims, clasped a wooden cross in her hands. “They tried to break us,” she said, “but tonight, we are stronger. We are together.” 

The church bells tolled with mournful dignity as prayers were lifted for the repose of the martyrs’ souls. The priests spoke not only of suffering, but of hope—hope that this moment of darkness would not define the future of Syria’s Christian population but instead awaken the conscience of the nation and the world. 

From across Syria and beyond, Christians are mourning—but they are also calling out for justice, protection, and recognition. Sunday’s attack was not the first, but the grief it stirred may be the loudest cry yet for a country where Christians, as equal citizens and faithful stewards of the land, seek only peace, safety, and dignity. 

As the congregation slowly departed, many lingered in the church courtyard, sharing memories, tears, and solemn pledges to preserve the memory of the fallen. In their silence and solidarity, the enduring spirit of Syria’s Christians was unmistakable.