CHICAGO, IL –
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 yearn for healing. In response, the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago will organize a prayer service in the coming days, welcoming all who mourn the fallen and those who have been injured.
In addition to prayers, please consider a donation to the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation at https://cpdmemorial.org.
We offer our prayers for the peaceful rest of Officer Bartholomew’s soul, for the swift recovery of the injured, and for the comfort of their families and loved ones. Additionally, we seek the protection of all first responders and medical professionals. We also pray for our city, that the Lord may sow seeds of reconciliation in times of hostility, bring healing to those suffering, and illuminate our hearts amid uncertainty.
