Pope sends message of prayerful solidarity

Pope Francis has sent a message to Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, assuring the "nation of his prayers" after yesterday's terror attack in Westminster (22 March).

The message, communicated via the Holy See's Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, commends those who died to the loving mercy of Almighty God as Pope Francis "invokes divine strength and peace upon their grieving families".

Full Text

Dear Cardinal Nichols,

At the request of the Secretariat of State I have the honour to transmit this message to you:

His Eminence Cardinal Vincent Nichols
Archbishop of Westminster
President of the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales

Deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and of the injuries caused by the attack in central London, His Holiness Pope Francis expresses his prayerful solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy.

Commending those who have died to the loving mercy of Almighty God, His Holiness invokes divine strength and peace upon their grieving families, and he assures the nation of his prayers at this time.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State

I avail of this opportunity to assure you of my own deep sympathy and prayers at this difficult time, while remaining,
Yours sincerely in the Lord,

Monsignor Matteo De Mori
Charge d'Affaires
Apostolic Nunciature, Great Britain