Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – Following the series of terrorist attacks in Bombay (Mumbai), the economic capital of India, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Secretary of State, sent a telegram to the Archbishop of Bombay, Cardinal Oswald Gracias, on behalf of the Holy Father Benedict XVI. The Pope is “deeply concerned about the outbreak of violence in Mumbai,” and in presenting his condolences to the victims' families, assures of his spiritual closeness to the public authorities, citizens, and all those affected. The telegram continues, in English: “His holiness urgently appeals for an end to all acts of terrorism, which gravely offend the human family and severely destabilize the peace and solidarity needed to build a civilization worthy of mankind’s noble vocation to love God and neighbor.” Benedict XVI is praying for the eternal repose of the victims and implores God’s gift of strength and comfort for those who are injured and in mourning. (SL) (Agenzia Fides 28/11/2008)
