Pope Francis mourns horrific massacre in OWO, Nigeria

Pope Francis mourns the terrorist act that took lives of more than 50 parishioners at Saint Francis Catholic church in Owo, Ondo State.  A papal telegram that was sent on behalf of Pope Francis by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin conveys that pope is praying “for the conversion of those blinded by hatred and violence.”

The papal telegraphy sends to Bishop Jude Ayodeji Arogundade of Ondo reads:

“His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened to learn of the horrific attack at St. Francis Church in Owo, and he assures you and all those affected by this act of unspeakable violence of his spiritual closeness.”

“In commending the souls of the dead to the loving mercy of Almighty God and imploring divine healing and consolation upon the injured and those who are grieving, His Holiness prays for the conversion of those blinded by hatred and violence so that they will choose instead the path of peace and righteousness.”

“Upon you and the faithful of the diocese, Pope Francis invokes the divine blessings of comfort and strength as you continue to live the Gospel message with fidelity and courage.”

I was deeply saddened to learn of the horrific attack at Saint Francis church in Owo in #Nigeria. #PrayTogether for all those affected by this act of unspeakable violence and for the conversion of those blinded by hatred and violence.

— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) June 6, 2022