Pope Sends Telegram to Mumbai

Pope 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 neighbour."

VATICAN CITY (AsiaNews) - The Pope is "deeply concerned about the outbreak of violence" in Mumbai and "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 neighbour."

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In a telegram signed by Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Secretary of state, and addressed to the Archbishop of Bombay Card Oswald Gracias, Benedict XVI asks him to convey his "heartfelt condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in these brutal attacks, and to assure the public authorities, citizens, and all those affected of his spiritual closeness."

Finally, the Pope said that he is praying "for the repose of the souls of the victims and implores god's gift of strength and comfort for those who are injured and in mourning."