The following is the telegram of condolences for the victims of the attack that took place this morning in the Basilica of Notre-Dame in Nice, France, sent by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, on behalf of the Holy Father Francis, to Bishop André Marceau of Nice:

Telegram

His Excellency Bishop André Marceau of Nice

Informed of the savage attack that was perpetrated this morning in a church in Nice, causing the death of several innocent people, His Holiness Pope Francis joins in prayer with the suffering of the families affected, and shares their sorrow. He asks the Lord to bring them comfort and commends the victims to His mercy. As he condemns such violent acts of terror in the strongest possible way, he assures his the Catholic Community of France and all the French people of his closeness, and he calls for unity among them. He entrusts France to the protection of Our Lady, and wholeheartedly imparts his Apostolic Blessing to all those affected by this tragedy.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin

Secretary of State of His Holiness