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After mentioning the Texas school shooting after the general audience on May 25, 2002, Pope Francis also reached out to the local Church, sending a message that same day through his secretary of state to the archbishop of San Antonio.
The Pope’s message assures his “spiritual closeness,” commending the souls of the deceased to God’s mercy. He prays for “healing and consolation” for the injured and those mourning.
The Pope cites Scripture to reiterate “firm faith” that good will overcome evil, and prays for those “tempted to violence” that they will instead choose solidarity and love.
Here is the full text of his message:
~
The Most Reverend
Gustavo Garcia-Siller
Archbishop of San Antonio
His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic shooting that took place at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde.
Assuring those affected by this attack of his spiritual closeness, His Holiness joins the entire community in commending the souls of those children and teachers who died to Almighty God’s loving mercy, and he implores the divine gifts of healing and consolation upon the injured and bereaved.
With firm faith in the Risen Christ, through whom every evil will be overcome by good (Cf Romans 12:21), he prays that those tempted to violence will choose instead the path of fraternal solidarity and love. As a pledge of strength and peace in the Lord, the Holy Father sends his blessing.
Cardina Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State
And today we celebrate...