VATICAN CITY -- Pope Francis Tuesday lashed out at the "blind violence" of the Brussels terrorist attack and "implored God for the gift of peace". The Vatican said there would be no changes to the pontiff's liturgical programme for Easter Holy week despite a heightened alert in Italy following the twin attacks on the European capital.

 "The Holy Father condemns anew the blind violence that causes so much suffering and implores God for the gift of peace," Francis said in a telegram sent to the archbishop of Malines-Brussels, Mons. Jozef De Kesel.

 Fr. Federico Lombardi, the chief Vatican spokesman, said no changes are planned to the pope's schedule for Easter starting with the pontiff washing the feet of 12 migrants on Maundy Thursday in the traditional representation of Christ washing the feet of his disciples.

  Security measures already tightened for the special Jubilee under way in the Vatican will bne reinforced further for Easter, Vatican sources said.

  jp