A Statement by His Eminence Metropolitan Nathanael on the Tragic Shootings in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago, Illinois, April 27, 2026 – Scripture teaches us that our deepest struggle as Christians is not merely against our visible trials, but against a darkness that emerges without warning to wound, divide, and harden the human heart. In the face of such darkness, especially when it threatens to overwhelm us, we are called to remain steadfast in our faith. As followers of Christ and citizens of Chicago, we feel this calling with particular urgency today.

With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of Chicago Police Officer John Bartholomew , who was shot last Saturday morning while on duty at a hospital not far from St. Demetrios Church in Lincoln Square. We also hold in our prayers another officer who was critically wounded and continues to fight for his life, and we remember all who serve in harm’s way for the safety of others.

The weight of this violence can leave us grieving and fearful, tempting us toward despair. Yet, we must not allow our hearts to grow indifferent or lose hope. In these moments, we turn to God—not to withdraw from the world, but to find the strength to meet it with prayer, compassion, and courage.

Our city is deeply wounded, and its people…