VATICAN – His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic shooting that took place at robb elementary school in Uvalde. Assuring those affected by this attack of his spiritual closeness, his holiness joins the entire community in commending the souls of those children and teachers who died to almighty God’s loving mercy and he implores the divine gifts of healing and consolation upon injured and bereaved. With firm faith in the risen Christ, through whom every evil will be overcome by good, he prays that those tempted to violence will chose instead the path of fraternal solidarity and love. As a pledge of strength and peace in the Lord, the Holy Father sends his blessing.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin

Secretary of State