The 16-year-old boy who allegedly stabbed Assyrian bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel and a priest during a church service in Sydney's Wakeley suburb has been charged with a terrorism offense despite the bishop forgiving him for his actions.
According to Australian public broadcaster ABC, the court heard that the teenager has a long history of behavior consistent with mental health issues.
The teenager's lawyer, Greg Scragg, also did not apply for bail on his client's behalf.
"He does have a long history with intermittent psychiatric treatment dating from about five years of age up until shortly before the commission of the alleged offenses," Scragg told the court.
The boy remained under police guard in the hospital and did not appear in person or on the video link.
If convicted, the teenager could get a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, Reuters reported.
Emmanuel, 53, has a popular youth following on TikTok and has been a target of criticism, hate, and online trolling. His sermons range from homilies on the Bible to fiery criticisms of homosexuality, COVID-19 vaccinations, Islam, and the election of US President Joe Biden.
In an audio message on social media on Thursday (Apr. 18), the bishop said he had forgiven his attacker and was recovering quickly.
"I forgive whoever has done this act..." Emmanuel said. "I will always pray for you, and whoever sent you to do this, I forgive them as well."
