It occurred throughout a televised service on the church on Monday night, police mentioned. The Orthodox Assyrian church streams providers on-line.
A video on social media exhibits a person wearing black approaching a cleric on the altar recognized because the bishop at Christ the Good Shepherd in suburban Wakely and showing to stab him repeatedly within the head and higher physique.
Members of the congregation are seen screaming and speeding to the bishop’s help. The church web site recognized the bishop as Mar Mari Emmanuel.
NSW Ambulance service mentioned it had handled a person in his 50s for a number of cuts and brought him to a hospital, and three others have been handled for a number of cuts on the scene.
“A big police response is underway and the general public is urged to keep away from the realm,” police mentioned.
The premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, described the scenes as “disturbing” on social media and urged the group to stay calm and “stick collectively”. Spiritual leaders expressed shock and condolences.
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Authorities rule out terrorism in lethal Sydney knife assault
Authorities rule out terrorism in lethal Sydney knife assault
There was no instant indication the 2 stabbings have been linked.
Christ the Good Shepherd had been making ready for Palm Sunday later this month.
The bishop was featured in nationwide information final yr.
