Thursday, March 28, 2024
20.4 C
Sydney

‘The whole of humanity has been hurt’: Paris archbishop thanks supporters

Most read

The Archbishop of Paris has expressed his thanks for the outpouring of support that followed the 13 November terror attacks on the French capital.

In an email sent to international civic and religious leaders, including the Archbishop of Sydney, Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP, Cardinal André Vingt-Trois acknowledged the “messages of friendship, compassion and prayers have been sent to me from all over the world”.

“There are too many, to answer each in a personalised manner, but I want to thank you,” he wrote.

- Advertisement -

“These testimonies sum up the magnitude of this drama that has resonated throughout the world and shows that the whole of humanity has been hurt, and this is concerning.”

More than 120 people were killed in a series of terror attacks across Paris on the evening of 13 November. Islamic State later claimed responsibility.

Archbishop Fisher led Sydney Catholics in prayer on 16 November for victims of the Paris attacks and recent attacks in Beirut and Baghdad.

Cardinal Vingt-Trois said the tragedy was a reminder of the importance of grace.

“As I had the opportunity to say to the Catholics of Paris, in the face of human violence, are we able to receive the grace with a firm heart and without hatred,” he wrote.

“May the composure, self-restraint and self-control that are evident until now, be manifested in the coming weeks and months and may no one drift to anger and hatred.”

He called on Catholics to remember the spirit of Advent and to make the most of the Year of Mercy, which begins on 29 November.

“In a few days, as we enter Advent, which will prepare us to receive the Prince of Peace, and with the coming of the Blessed Year of Mercy, we entrust the victims, the injured and their relatives to the Lord and ask Him to make each of us a master of peace and a symbol of the divine mercy.

“We should never lose hope pursuing peace, if we establish justice.”

- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -