Statement of condolence by the Archbishop of Australia for the victims of the shopping centre attack in Sydney
Words fail to describe our sadness at the heinous crime committed at Westfield Bondi Junction shopping centre in Sydney, as well as our deep pain for the tragic loss of innocent lives.
From the depths of my heart, I feel the need to address the relatives and friends of the victims and express not only my personal sincere condolences but also those of the entire Christ-loving plenitude of the Holy Archdiocese. Let me assure them that we are praying for their consolation and strengthening from on high as well as for the repose of the souls of their loved ones.
At the same time, our thoughts turn to our fellow human beings who were injured and hospitalised, for whom we fervently pray that they overcome further danger and make a speedy recovery. May God enlighten and strengthen the medical staff, both doctors and nurses who in these critical hours care for the recovery of the wounded in a self-sacrificing manner, as always, in order to uphold the sacredness of human life.