Macron commemorates French priest killed by Islamic extremists 10 years ago

French President Emmanuel Macron commemorated Father Jacques Hamel on the 10th anniversary of his death. Macron stated on his X account that the elderly priest was murdered by two Islamist terrorists because he represented hope, fraternity, and the rejection of hatred.

Father Hamel was killed on July 26, 2016, while celebrating Mass at the church of Saint-Étienne-du-Rouvray in Rouen, France. Two Islamic State terrorists entered the church, destroyed religious images, and stabbed the 86-year-old priest after he refused to kneel.

Macron sent greetings to the parishioners, the residents of Saint-Étienne-du-Rouvray, the family of the priest, and Catholics across France. The president noted that the memory of the priest requires the nation to defend freedom of conscience and remain united against terrorism. The cause for Father Hamel's beatification is currently underway.