MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF CATHOLIC RELIGIOUS AUSTRALIA

MONICA CAVANAGH RSJ

The senseless acts of violence which took place in the two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand on Friday 15 March 2019 have sent shock waves through communities around the world.

On behalf of Catholic religious women and men around Australia, I offer my sincere condolences to all those whose relatives and friends lost their lives in this vicious attack. We offer prayers and blessings to those who died, those who are injured, those who are grieving and to emergency personnel who attended the scenes.

We hold the Muslim community in prayer and join with Pope Francis in his heartfelt solidarity with all New Zealanders and in particular the Muslim community, in the wake of these horrendous acts. We condemn all forms of violence, extremism and terror. We pray for peace and for healing during this painful time.