Holy Father, Arlington Bishop Mourn Loss of Life at Virginia Tech
Apr 17, 2007
The Vatican made public this morning a message from Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, on behalf of Pope Benedict XVI. The Holy Father has assured Richmond Bishop Francis DiLorenzo of his “heartfelt prayers” for all the victims, their families, and the Virginia Tech community.“Deeply saddened by the news of the shooting at Virginia Tech,” the statement begins, “His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has asked me to convey the assurance of his heartfelt prayers for the victims, their families and for the entire school community.”“In the aftermath of this senseless tragedy,” the message continues, the Pope, “asks God our Father to console all those who mourn and to grant them that spiritual strength which triumphs over violence by the power of forgiveness, hope, and reconciling love.”
Arlington Bishop Paul S. Loverde called northern Virginia Catholics to pray for the victims and families of the Virginia Tech tragedy. His statement follows:
“I am truly shocked and saddened by the senseless killings yesterday at Virginia Tech. In addition, many were wounded. I join countless others across the Commonwealth in praying for those killed, the wounded, the Virginia Tech campus community, and families and friends of the students. I also am praying for the soul of the person responsible for this heinous act. I commend all the victims of this unspeakable violence and their families to the Lord of Life and assure them that our diocesan family of Arlington, especially our clergy, offer their prayers and support in this time of grief and need. Today I offered the holy Mass for those killed, wounded, and the entire community.”
Bishop Loverde invites members of the community to join him at a holy hour of prayer for the victims:
7:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 22
Holy Spirit Church
8800 Braddock Rd.
Annandale, VA 22003
Noted Irish tenor Mark Forest will provide music during the time of prayer
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