Holy Father prays for victims of Wisconsin tragedy

Condolences and closeness to the victims and those involved in the tragedy in Waukesha, Wisconsin — where last Sunday, 21 November a car deliberately ran over several people who were participating in a Christmas parade — were expressed by Pope Francis in a telegram, signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, addressed to Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki of Milwaukee, usa.

The Pontiff “commends the souls of those who died to Almighty God’s loving mercy” and “implores the divine gifts of healing and consolation upon the injured and bereaved”. The Pope, the telegram concludes, “joins you in asking the Lord to bestow upon everyone the spiritual strength which triumphs over violence and overcomes evil with good”.

On 21 November, the driver of a red suv reportedly roared through the parade in the suburban Milwaukee town of Waukesha, killing at least five people and leaving 48 injured.

According to authorities, the driver, who is in police custody, had left the scene of a domestic dispute and did not appear to know anyone in the parade when he drove into the route. In a statement shortly after the tragedy, Archbishop Listecki, said he is standing in solidarity with those who have been affected by this senseless act.

“When confronted with the shock and the grief encountered by our brothers and sisters in Waukesha, it is now important for us to turn to our faith which offers us God’s loving presence and consolation,” he said.

The Archbishop asked for prayers for all those involved, their families and those who are traumatized from witnessing the horrible scene.