A Philadelphia priest was brutally attacked in his home across from St. Maron's Maronite Catholic Church

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — A Philadelphia priest is recovering after he was brutally attacked Wednesday morning at his home across from St. Maron's Maronite Catholic Church on Ellsworth Street.

According to police, a man kicked and punched the priest's door and eventually got into the house around 9:30 a.m. Once inside, he attacked the priest and then ran away.

On Friday, Action News spoke with Father Andrew El Tadchi, who now walks with a cane after being attacked.

“I want to make it clear to everyone that South Philadelphia is very safe. It's a safe area. This incident was targeted and is in the very capable hands of the police. I am confident that justice will be served,” said Father El Tadchi.

According to police, the attacker has gray hair and a stocky build. He was last seen wearing a gray hoodie, black pants and brown shoes.

Despite the brutal attack, Father El Tadchi wanted to pass on this message: “Stay positive, love each other and be kind,” he said.