Pope offers prayers following Bondi attack

Following the horrific attack which claimed the lives of six people at Bondi Junction’s Westfield shopping centre last weekend, Pope Francis has expressed his ‘spiritual closeness’ to those affected.

Twelve others were also injured in the attack on Saturday 13 April, with several remaining in intensive care, including a nine-month-old baby.

A telegram sent on behalf of the Pope by Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, addressed to Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP, described the Holy Father as ‘deeply saddened’ by the news.

“Pope Francis was deeply saddened to learn of the violent attack in Sydney, and he sends the assurance of his spiritual closeness to all affected by this senseless tragedy, especially those who are now mourning the loss of a loved one,” it read.

The Holy Father offered prayers for the deceased, the wounded and the first responders, and invoked upon the nation ‘divine blessings of consolation and strength.’

The attacker was identified as a 40-year-old Queensland man who was shot and killed at the scene by NSW Police Inspector Amy Scott.

Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP mourned the victims in remarks made at Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral on 14 April, the day after the attack, which was also the Day of the Unborn Child.

“At a time of universal grief and horror at the multiple murders and injuries at Bondi Junction yesterday, including the stabbing of a baby—as well as celebration of the courage of the baby’s mother, the policewoman, and other bystanders—we reflect upon our community’s profound commitment to the value of every human life,” Archbishop Fisher said.

“In this Mass we recommit ourselves and our community to that principle, even as we pray for eternal life for yesterday’s victims.

“We acknowledge that all human life is made in the image of God, made for a full life on earth and eternal life in heaven, and so demands our reverence and protection, especially when most vulnerable.”