A loud noise from a speaker caused the congregation to visibly jump. It made sense that they would be frightened: this Greek Orthodox Christian church, in the Syrian capital Damascus, was the target of a suicide bombing just months before. Yet on a recent Sunday, hundreds still turned out for the Divine Liturgy.

The service took place in the basement: the main section of the Mar Elias church was being renovated after becoming the site of mass killing. In the ceiling above, damage was still visible. Builders could be seen through high windows.

The gun attack and subsequent bombing took place on June 22nd, killing 22 people, according to Mar Elias priests, though other sources put the figure at 25. A little-known group called Saraya Ansar al-Sunna claimed responsibility, saying the attack was a response to “provocation”, seemingly related to efforts to prevent Islamic proselytisation in the neighbourhood. Syria’s government said the attack was linked to the so-called Islamic State, which did not claim responsibility.

“What do you think about Christians in this country? I think all the Christians, maybe they will die, it’s not safe,” said Samir Mansour (62), standing near the back of the church as the Sunday service continued. “All the people here, they want to leave this country,” he said. “Can you tell your government ...