Pope Sends Condolences to Victims of Terrorist Attack in Iraq

Pope Francis today sent a promise of prayer to the victims of Friday’s terrorist attack in Iraq.
A suicide bomber blew himself up at a soccer game near Baghdad, resulting in 29 deaths and some 60 wounded.
The Pope’s secretary of state, Carinal Pietro Parolin, sent a message to the apostolic nuncio in Iraq, Archbishop Alberto Ortega Martín.
Here is the text of the message:
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The Most Reverend Alberto Ortega Martín
Apostolic Nuncio in Iraq
BAGHDAD
Saddened by the news of the great loss of life caused by the terrorist attack in Iskanderiyah, His Holiness Pope Francis offers fervent prayers for the victims and their families, invoking Gods mercy upon the dead and divine consolation upon those who suffer. He prays that in response to this act of senseless violence the Iraqi people will be strengthened in their resolve to reject the ways of hatred and conflict and to work together fearlessly for a future of mutual respect, solidarity and freedom.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State