Abp Martin: condolences to victims of Manchester attack

(Vatican Radio) The Primate of All Ireland, Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh, has issued a statement offering condolences to the victims of Monday evening's terror attack in Manchester, England, and condemning the act of violence in which at least 22 people were killed and 59 others wounded. Please find the full text of Archbishop Martin's statement, below...

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Archbishop Eamon Martin offers prayers for those killed and injured in the Manchester bombing

“I have sent a message this morning to Bishop John Arnold, Bishop of Salford, to express our shock and sorrow at the horrific bombing in Manchester last night.  Such a violent and brutal attack inflicts terror and long-lasting trauma on children and families and leaves a wound that can only be healed by compassion, love and solidarity.

“We are praying for the dead, the injured and for all affected by the bombing.  Such an awful attack challenges us all to resolve personally to build peace, solidarity and hope everywhere.  Only in this way can the hearts of those who plan and perpetrate such violent and pointless attacks be changed.

“I will remember the victims of this attack and their families in my Masses and prayers, and I know that the prayerful solidarity of people across Ireland goes to the people of Manchester at this sad time.”

+Eamon Martin
Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland