Pope Francis Denounces Moscow Attack as "Inhumane" and "Offensive to God"
During the Angelus prayer after Palm Sunday Mass, Pope Francis offered prayers for the victims of a recent terrorist attack in Moscow, which resulted in the death of at least 133 individuals. He condemned the act as "cowardly" and "inhumane," emphasizing that such violence is an affront to God. The Pope extended his sympathies to the families of those affected and expressed his desire for a conversion of heart among those responsible for planning, organizing, and executing such atrocities.
The Pope's address in St. Peter's Square followed the Palm Sunday Mass, during which he did not participate in the procession or deliver the homily. In his speech, he touched upon the broader context of violence and conflict in the world, mentioning the suffering caused by the war in Ukraine, where recent attacks on infrastructure have left many without electricity, and the murders of peace workers in Colombia. He also remembered the violence in Gaza, alluding to the urgent need for peace in these regions.
The attack in Moscow took place on March 22 at the Crocus City Hall concert venue in Krasnogorsk, when gunmen opened fire on the audience before a series of explosions and a subsequent fire broke out. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the massacre, releasing a video of the incident. In response, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin declared March 24 a national day of mourning and canceled upcoming entertainment events in the capital. The Russian Investigative Committee has launched a criminal investigation into the terrorist act.
Pope Francis's plea for peace and conversion comes at a significant time for the Catholic Church, as the faithful enter Holy Week, leading up to Easter. The pontiff's message is one of compassion and an urgent call to end violence and restore harmony across communities and nations.
