Indian bishops, pope condemn deadly blasts in Mumbai

Published: 2006-07-12

THRISSUR, India (CNS) -- The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India and Pope Benedict XVI deplored the July 11 bomb blasts in Mumbai that killed at least 200 and injured more than 700 people. "It is a blatant act of aggression on harmless people, and this must be countered with courage and determination by all concerned," the bishops said in a statement July 11. "We appeal to all the affected people to maintain calm and equanimity at this hour of sorrow and grief so that the nefarious designs of the anti-social elements can be defeated." In a telegram sent to Mumbai's city and church leaders by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Vatican secretary of state, Pope Benedict assured all those affected of his spiritual closeness in prayer. "While deploring these senseless acts against humanity, the Holy Father commends the many deceased to the loving mercy of the Almighty," the telegram said. "Upon their grieving families and the numerous injured he invokes the divine gifts of strength, consolation and comfort."

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