Pope sends condolence letter
to Sri Lanka's Christians
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| Scaffolding surrounds St. Anthony 's Shrine in Colombo, two weeks after deadly terrorist attacks (AFP) |
As Catholic churches and schools remain closed across Sri
Lanka for fear of further terrorist attacks, Pope Francis sends his condolences
to Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith and the country's Christian communities.
By Vatican News
The Pope’s letter was read out to the faithful at the end of
a televised Mass on Sunday, which was celebrated by Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith,
the Archbishop of Colombo.
Sri Lanka’s Catholic churches and schools remain closed, two
weeks after terrorist attacks killed 257 people on Easter Sunday.
In his letter, Pope Francis renews his “profound solidarity”
and “continued prayers” for Sri Lanka.
The Holy Father also prays for the Lord “to bring healing to
the injured and consolation to all who mourn the loss of their loved ones.”
The original text of Pope Francis’ letter follows:
“In the wake of the brutal attacks on Christian communities
gathered in prayer on Easter Sunday, and on several other sites in Sri Lanka, I
feel moved to assure you once more of my profound solidarity and my continued
prayers for all those affected by these contemptible crimes.
“In union with our brothers and sisters throughout the
world, I commend the dead to the infinite mercy of God our heavenly Father and
ask the Lord Jesus, victor over sin and death, to bring healing to the injured
and consolation to all who mourn the loss of their loved ones.
“With the followers of all religions, and men and women of
good will everywhere, we express horror at this unspeakable offence against the
holy name of God and I pray that hearts hardened by hatred may yield to His
will for peace and reconciliation among all his children.
“At this time of immense grief, may the faithful be
confirmed in charity, consoling one another with the hope born of Easter and
our unshakeable faith in Christ’s promises.
“Conscious of the wound inflicted on the entire nation, I
likewise pray that all Sri Lankans will be affirmed in their resolve to foster
social harmony, justice and peace.
“With these sentiments, I affectionately commend you and
your brother Bishops, together with the clergy, religious and lay faithful
entrusted to your care, to the loving embrace of Our Lady, Queen and Patroness
of Sri Lanka, and I cordially impart my Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of
strength and peace in the Risen Lord.”
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