The following is the telegram of condolences for the victims of the terrorist attacks that took place last Friday in the Region of Carcassonne and Trèbes, in the south of France, sent by Pope Francis to H.E. Msgr. Alain Planet, bishop of Carcassonne et Narbonne:

Telegram of the Holy Father

Having learned of the tragic attacks that took place in Carcassonne and Trèbes, claiming many victims, I wish to express my sadness and I entrust to God’s mercy those who have lost their lives, joining in prayer with the mourning of their relatives. I particularly commend the generous and heroic act of Lieutenant Colonel Arnaud Beltrame, who gave his life to protect others. I express my sympathy to the wounded and their families, as well as all those who have been affected by this tragedy, imploring the Lord to bring them comfort and consolation. I once again condemn such acts of indiscriminate violence, which cause great suffering, and I fervently ask God for the gift of peace. I invoke upon all the afflicted families and on the French people the goodness of divine blessings.

Francis P.P.