Cardinal Vincent has written to Frs Peter Egboo and Alexander Izang Atu, Nigerian Chaplains, following the deadly attack on Pentecost Sunday at St Francis' Catholic Church in Owo, to assure them and the Nigerian community of his prayers and support.
In his letter, he expresses 'shock and dismay' at the attack, and prays for all who are bereaved, injured and traumatised, and all who have died.
The full text of the letter:
Dear Fr Peter and Fr Alexander,
The news of the deadly attack by gunmen during Mass on Pentecost Sunday at St Francis’ Catholic Church, in Owo, has shocked and dismayed us all. I write to assure you and all your people of the prayers and support of the Catholics in the Diocese of Westminster and beyond.
May God grant strength and enduring faith to all who are bereaved, injured and traumatised. May God welcome into his merciful presence all who have died. May the power of the Holy Spirit turn the hearts of all who commit evil to a true understanding of God and his desire and intention for humanity.
May Jesus, whose death and resurrection we have recently celebrated, be the face and presence of the mercy of the Father and the Light of eternal life for us all. Amen.
I take this opportunity too to thank you for all that you are doing in the diocese, particularly at this time of great sadness.
Yours very sincerely,
+Vincent
HE Cardinal Vincent Nichols
Archbishop of Westminster
