Aleteia logoAleteia logoAleteia
Thursday 21 November |
The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Aleteia logo
Church
separateurCreated with Sketch.

Pope mourns toddlers killed in “unspeakable” Thailand attack

000_32KW7JK.jpg

AFP

Portraits of young victims of a mass shooting in a nursery are displayed atop their coffins as funeral preparations get underway at Wat Si Uthai temple in Thailand's northeastern Nong Bua Lam Phu province on October 7, 2022. -

Kathleen N. Hattrup - published on 10/07/22

He asks for "divine healing and consolation" for the families

Pope Francis has sent his condolences to the grieving families in Thailand, through a note signed by his secretary of state to the papal representative in the country.

More than 30 people were killed in a knife- and shooting-spree at a preschool — more than two dozen were children, including one unborn child. Most of the victims were toddlers between 2 and 5 years old, including 3-year-old twin boys.

The attacker was Panya Khamrab, 34, who had been dismissed from his police force earlier this year due to methamphetamine possession.

The Pope’s note said he was “deeply saddened to learn of the horrific attack” and that he offered his “heartfelt condolences and the assurance of his spiritual closeness to all those affected by this act of unspeakable violence against innocent children.”

“In imploring divine healing and consolation upon the injured and the grieving families, His Holiness prays that, in this hour of immense sadness, they may draw support and strength from the solidarity of their neighbors and fellow citizens. Upon all the beloved Thai people, the Holy Father invokes the blessings of peace and perseverance in every good.”

Thailand is some 95% Buddhist.

Tags:
Pope Francis
Enjoying your time on Aleteia?

Articles like these are sponsored free for every Catholic through the support of generous readers just like you.

Help us continue to bring the Gospel to people everywhere through uplifting Catholic news, stories, spirituality, and more.

2025-Aleteia-Pilgrimage-300×250-1.png
Daily prayer
And today we celebrate...




Top 10
See More
Newsletter
Get Aleteia delivered to your inbox. Subscribe here.