Following the attack at Manchester Arena on 22nd May, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Sercretary of State, has written to Cardinal Vincent on behalf of the Holy Father who expresses his 'heartfelt solidarity' with the victims. Cardinal Parolin writes:
'His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened to learn of the injury and tragic loss of life caused by the barbaric attack in Manchester and he expresses his heartfelt solidarity with all those affected by this senseless act of violence. He commends the generous efforts of the emergency and security personnel, and offers the assurance of his prayers for the injured, and for all who have died. Mindful in a particular way of those children and young people who have lost their lives, and of their grieving families, Pope Francis invokes God’s blessings of peace, healing and strength upon the nation.'
Also expressing condolences and solidarity were the Bishops of Spain. Writing on behalf of the Spanish Bishops’ Conference, Cardinal Ricardo Blazquez Perez extended assurances of ‘thoughts and prayers for the victims of the brual attack’ and ‘solidarity with the people of Britain’.
He added: ‘We pray that the Lord may grant eternal life to those who have died, recovery for the injured, and peace and consolation to their families.’
