Archbishop condemns terrorist attacks on Mumbai city

(November 28, 2008) The archbishop of Bombay has condemned the terrorist attacks in Mumbai and appealed to the city and all Indians to keep their hopes high in fighting the divisive forces of terrorism. Speaking to AsiaNews, Cardinal Oswald Gracias expressed shock and sadness over the attacks that have left over 120 killed and over 250 injured. Vehemently condemning the attacks on behalf of the Catholic Church in India the cardinal said innocent and unconnected people as well as brave police officers have been killed. He said the Catholic church in Mumbai was throwing open all its medical services to those who have been injured. “We must fight together as a nation and as a united people to combat the terrorists,” Cardinal Gracias said, adding “We must never give up hope because ultimately hope will prevail. It is Christian to always hope. Good will triumph, evil will be overcome, this is our Hope,” he said. Cardinal Gracias who is recovering from a cancer surgery, urged all to fight divisive forces and elements that sow seeds of mistrust and suspicion in the minds of the people. He said India is a tolerant nation, so to is Mumbai, but those who have carried out the terrorist attacks “are all misguided people … who have been deluded and brainwashed into the ideologies and propaganda of the cause, but this is madness, they bring death, fear , panic and disrupt the harmony and lives of the city and country. But he urged all to have hope that “God will lead us from darkness of chaos to Light Peace and Harmony.” Cardinal Oswald Gracias also shared his feelings with Vatican Radio on the phone. Listen: