Pontiff, European bishops react to terror attack in Brussels

March 22, 2016

Pope Francis sent a message of sympathy and solidarity to Archbishop Jozef De Kesel of Brussels after the Beglian city was struck by terrorists on March 22.

At least 30 people were killed, and over 100 injured, by the bombing attack on the city's airport and subway system. Pope Francis condemned "the blind violence which causes so much suffering," and promised his prayers for the victims and their families.

The Catholic bishops of Belgium responded with their own statement of solidarity. Bishop Jean Kockerols, a Brussels auxiliary, said that the faithful "weep with those who weep." The Chrism Mass, scheduled to be celebrated in Brussels the next day, was postponed.

Cardinal Reinhard Marx of Munich, the president of the Commission of Episcopal Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), added his own statement, saying that Holy Week is "a time to pray with particular intensity for victims of violence and for those close to them."

 

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Further information:

• elegram for the attacks in Brussels: Francis condemns "blind violence" (Vatican press office)
• Attentats à Bruxelles, les réactions du pape et des évêques de Belgique (La Croix)