Pope deplores 'barbaric' attacks in London

Pope Benedict XVI today said he deplored the “terrorist attacks” in London, calling them “barbaric acts against humanity”, and said he was praying for the families of the victims.

In a telegram sent to Cardinal Cormac Murphy O’Connor, archbishop of Westminster, Benedict said he was deeply saddened to learn of the news and was spiritually close to all those who were grieving.

“Deeply saddened by the news of the terrorist attacks in central London, the Holy Father offers his fervent prayers for the victims and for all those who mourn,” the telegram said.

“While he deplores these barbaric acts against humanity, he asks you to convey to the families of the injured his spiritual closeness at this time of grief.”

“Upon the people of Great Britain, he invokes the consolation that only God can give in such circumstances,” said the telegram, signed by the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Angelo Sodano.