Prayers for Boston

16 Apr 2013

Candle

Pope Expresses Profound Grief for Attack in Boston

Vatican City, 16 April 2013 (VIS) – Pope Francis, through Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone, S.D.B., has sent a telegram to Cardinal Sean O’Malley, O.F.M. Cap, archbishop of Boston, Massachusetts, USA in response to the attack that took place yesterday afternoon in that city during its annual marathon causing three deaths and leaving over 100 wounded.

“Deeply grieved by news of the loss of life and grave injuries caused by the act of violence perpetrated last evening in Boston, His Holiness Pope Francis wishes me to assure you of his sympathy and closeness in prayer. In the aftermath of this senseless tragedy, His Holiness invokes God’s peace upon the dead, his consolation upon the suffering, and his strength upon all those engaged in the continuing work of relief and response. At this time of mourning the Holy Father prays that all Bostonians will be united in a resolve not to be overcome by evil, but to combat evil with good (cf. Rom 12:21), working together to build an ever more just, free and secure society for generations yet to come.”

Bishop John Kirby calls for prayers for victims of Boston attack

Bishop John Kirby, Chair of the Irish Bishops’ Council for Emigrants, has called for prayers for those killed and injured in the explosion at the Boston Marathon yesterday.

“It was with great sadness that I heard the news of the attack at the Boston Marathon. On behalf of the Irish Bishops’ Council for Emigrants I offer my condolences and prayers to the people of Boston and to all those affected. I will offer Mass and pray for the victims and their families.”