Seven Killed in Attack on Orthodox Church During Funeral in Jordan
October 23, 2026 | Karak, Jordan
Seven people have been reported killed and dozens wounded after gunmen opened fire during a funeral gathering at St. George's Orthodox Church in Hammoud, in southern Jordan, on Friday, October 23.
Jordanian authorities condemned the shooting as a terrorist attack and launched an investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible. Reports of the number of wounded have varied as authorities continue to assess the tragedy.
The Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem issued an official statement condemning the violence. Patriarch Theophilos III, the Holy Synod, and Metropolitan Christophoros of Jordan extended their condolences to the families of those killed and expressed solidarity with the people of Jordan.
The Patriarchate emphasized that the attack must not undermine the country's unity or the longstanding bonds between its Christian and Muslim communities.
It also reaffirmed the determination of Christians to remain faithful to their homeland despite violence and intimidation.
The tragedy has brought profound sorrow to the Orthodox community of Jordan and renewed concern for the protection of worshippers and religious communities.
The faithful are called to pray for the repose of those who lost their lives, the healing of the wounded, and the consolation of the bereaved families.
Source: Reuters, Associated Press, Jordanian authorities, and the Jerusalem Patriarchate's official statement, October 23, 2026.
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