Holy Father offers heartfelt condolences

Unspeakable violence against innocent children

A view of the day care centre the day after a mass shooting in the town of Uthai Sawan, in the ...
07 October 2022

Pope Francis expressed profound sadness following “the horrific attack” that took place at a child-care centre in Uthai Sawan, Thailand, on Thursday, 6 October, when a 34-year-old man, armed with a gun and a knife, killed more than 30 people, including at least 24 children. In a telegram to the Apostolic Nunciature in Thailand sent on Friday, 7 October and signed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy Father offered “his heartfelt condolences and the assurance of his spiritual closeness to all those affected by this act of unspeakable violence against innocent children. In imploring divine healing and consolation upon the injured and the grieving families”, the telegram reads, “His Holiness prays that, in this hour of immense sadness, they may draw support and strength from the solidarity of their neighbours and fellow citizens. Upon all the beloved Thai people”, the message concludes, “the Holy Father invokes the blessings of peace and perseverance in every good”.