Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, a victim of a stabbing at a Sydney church, has publicly forgiven his alleged attacker.
Following the attack during a live-streamed mass at the Assyrian Orthodox Church, the bishop reported his quick recovery and called for the community's calmness in an audio message, saying: "I am doing fine, recovering very quickly...there is no need to be worried or concerned."
"I forgive whoever has done this act...I will always pray for you, and whoever sent you to do this, I forgive them as well," he said, emphasising his prayers for those responsible.
This stabbing incident is part of two major knife attacks within three days in Australia. A 16-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the church attack but has not yet been charged.
Bishop Emmanuel is known for engaging with his followers on social media platforms like TikTok and has voiced his opinions on various social issues.
The New South Wales Police believe the attack might have been motivated by suspected religious extremism.
Authorities described the bishop's survival as "fortunate".