Pope denounces Manchester attack as "barbaric," and "meaningless violence"

In a telegram, Francis expresses a special thought to “those children and young people who have lost their lives, and of their grieving families," invoking God's blessings for peace, healing, and strength across the nation. Isis claims the attack.

Vatican City (AsiaNews) - "Profound pain" for yesterday's attack in Manchester is expressed by Pope Francis in a telegram signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin.

In the telegram, the Pope says he is “deeply saddened to learn of the injury and tragic loss of life caused by the barbaric attack in Manchester, and he expresses his heartfelt solidarity with all those affected by this senseless act of violence”.

 He commends “the generous efforts of the emergency and security personnel, and offers the assurance of his prayers for the injured, and for all who have died”. He then focuses in particular on “those children and young people who have lost their lives, and of their grieving families”, and “invokes God’s blessings of peace, healing and strength upon the nation ".

The massacre was allegedly claimed by Isis, which speaks of "explosive ordnance in the midst of a gathering of crusaders." "For those who worship the Cross and their allies the worst is yet to come."

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• Pope Francis
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• Isis