Following the bomb blasts targeting the Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Jolo, Phlippines on Sunday 27th January, Cardinal Vincent has written to the Apostolic Administrator of Jolo, the Filipino Ambassador, and to Chaplain of the Filipino community of London, Fr Cirino Potrido CM, to express his sincere condolences for all those who died and were injured.
In his letter, he writes:
'These acts of violence have shocked the world and all those who believe that respect for human life is an essential foundation for every society.
'May God grant strength and enduring faith to all who are bereaved, injured and traumatised. May God welcome into his merciful presence all those who have died. May God turn the hearts of all who commit evil to a true understanding of His desire and intention for humanity.
'I assure you of the prayers and condolences of the Catholic Community in England and Wales. We, too, mourn this loss of life. We pray for the eternal repose of all who have died.'
