The Holy Father’s sorrow following deadly Fourth of July shooting in Chicago

On Tuesday, 5 July, Pope Francis expressed his sorrow following “the senseless shooting” in Highland Park, Chicago, during a Fourth of July parade which left seven people dead and over 30 wounded. The following is the English text of the telegram signed by Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.

His Eminence Cardinal Blase Cupich
Archbishop of Chicago

His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened to learn of the senseless shooting that took place in Highland Park and he asks you to convey his spiritual closeness to all affected by this attack. His Holiness joins the entire community in praying that Almighty God will grant eternal rest to the dead and healing and consolation to the injured and bereaved. With unwavering faith that the grace of God is able to convert even the hardest of hearts, making it possible to “depart from evil and do good” (Ps 34:14), Pope Francis prays that every member of society will reject violence in all of its forms and respect life in all of its stages. As a pledge of strength and peace in the Lord, the Holy Father sends his blessing.

Cardinal Pietro ParolinSecretary of State