People morning outside the nursery in Na Klang in Thailand

POPE

Pope Francis mourns victims of Thai daycare centre attack

Pope Francis sends his condolences to victims of an attack on a daycare centre in Thailand, assuring spiritual closeness to those affected by the “unspeakable violence.”

By Vatican News staff reporter

More than 30 people died, including 23 children, in a violent attack at a daycare centre for children in the northeast of Bangkok, Thailand.

Police have identified the attacker as an ex-policemen who burst into the daycare in a horrific rampage, killing mostly children. It is one of the worst child death tolls in a massacre by a single killer in recent history.

In response, Pope Francis sent a telegram, signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, expressing his “deep sadness” and offering his heartfelt condolences to those affected by the attack.

“Deeply saddened to learn of the horrific attack that took place at a child-care centre in Uthai Sawan, His Holiness Pope Francis offers his heartfelt condolences and the assurance of his spiritual closeness to all those affected by this act of unspeakable violence against innocent children.”

Praying for peace and perseverance

Pope Francis implored “divine healing and consolation” upon those affected by the attacks.

He prayed that “in this hour of immense sadness,” the injured and the grieving families might be able to draw “support and strength from the solidarity of their neighbours and fellow citizens.”

Finally, the Pope invoked the “blessings of peace and perseverance in every good”.

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