One year after a devastating suicide bombing killed at least 25 worshippers at St. Elias Orthodox Church in Damascus, the historic sanctuary is approaching the final stages of reconstruction, offering a symbol of resilience and hope for Syria’s Christian community.

The attack occurred during a church service on June 22, 2025, in the Dweila district of the Syrian capital. According to Syrian authorities, the assailant opened fire on congregants before detonating an explosive device inside the church. Dozens of people were injured in addition to those killed.

Syrian officials attributed the attack to the Islamic State group, which is designated as a terrorist organization by numerous countries and international bodies.

The bombing drew widespread international condemnation. The United Nations, the United States, France, Greece, and several other countries denounced the attack and called on Syria’s new authorities to ensure the protection of religious and ethnic minorities during the country’s ongoing political transition following the change of government in late 2024.

In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, the Antiochian Orthodox Patriarchate described the attack as a “heinous terrorist crime against peaceful believers in the house of God” and urged authorities to safeguard all citizens regardless of their religious affiliation.

On June 24, 2025, Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East presided over a funeral service for the victims at the Church of the Holy Cross in Damascus. Following the ceremony, the bodies of those killed were brought to the damaged St. Elias Church, where a final prayer was offered before their burial.

Despite the extensive destruction, reconstruction efforts began only months after the attack. During a visit to the site in November 2025, Patriarch John X thanked those involved in rebuilding the church and described the project as a symbol of hope, perseverance, and spiritual renewal for Syrian Christians.

New photographs released by the Antiochian Patriarchate on June 16, 2026, show the remarkable progress made over the past year. Images taken during another visit by Patriarch John X reveal that the church’s exterior structure is now nearly complete. While part of the bell tower façade remains covered by scaffolding, the building has largely regained its familiar appearance, with windows and doors already installed and major construction work finished.

Significant restoration has also taken place inside the church. Walls have been plastered and painted, while interior finishing work continues. The central nave now features marble flooring with decorative inlays, a newly installed marble altar, and a baptismal font. Wooden furnishings, including pews, gallery structures, and decorative panels, have also been completed.

Church leaders say St. Elias Church will continue to serve as a place of prayer, worship, and spiritual unity for the Orthodox Christians of Damascus. As the first anniversary of the attack is marked with memorial services and remembrance ceremonies, the rebuilding of the church stands as a testament to the determination of a community seeking to move forward without forgetting those who lost their lives.