Leader of the Catholic Church worldwide, Pope Francis has reacted to the killing of worshippers attending the Pentecost celebration at a parish in Owo, Ondo State by unknown gunmen. The pope had reacted in a tweet on 6th June 2022 by condoling with the families of the bereaved, more so praying to God for intervention on whosoever was involved in the horrendous act on 5th June 2022.
The tweet reads:
“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.”
The papal telegram, released on June 6, was sent to Bishop Jude Ayodeji Arogundade of Ondo by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
It said: “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.”