There has been widespread condemnation of the attacks which took place in Brussels this morning.
Pope Francis has a sent telegram to Jozef De Kesel, Archbishop of Mechelen-Brussels following the attacks. In the telegram signed by Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Pope Francis prays for the victims, the injured and their families and again condemns “blind violence which causes so much suffering.”
This is a Vatican Radio translation of the text of the Pope’s telegram:
Learning of the attacks in Brussels, which have affected many people, His Holiness Pope Francis entrusts to God’s mercy those who died and he prays for those who have lost relatives. He expresses his deepest sympathy to the injured and their families, and all those who contribute to relief efforts, asking the Lord to bring them comfort and consolation in this ordeal. The Holy Father again condemns the blind violence which causes so much suffering and imploring from God the gift of peace, he entrusts on the bereaved families and the Belgians the benefit of divine blessings.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State of His Holiness
The Catholic Bishops of Belgium have also issued a statement condemning the deadly terror attacks on the Brussels airport and underground stations, calling for prayerful solidarity with the victims and for national unity in response to the assault.
This is a Vatican Radio translation of the text of the Bishops’ statement:
“The bishops of Belgium are appalled to learn of the attack at Zaventem airport and in the center of Brussels. They share the anguish of thousands of travelers and their families, aviation professionals and the first responders who are once again called to service. They entrust the victims to the prayers of all in this new dramatic situation. Airport chaplains are every day at the service of all and provide the necessary spiritual support. May the whole country live these days with a great sense of civic responsibility.”
ENDS
