The Archdiocese issued a statement late yesterday in response to the bombing of the Boston Marathon where two bombs exploded near the finish line of the race, killing three and injuring more than 140 people.
"The Archdiocese of Boston joins all people of good will in expressing deep sorrow following the senseless acts of violence perpetrated at the Boston Marathon today," Cardinal O'Malley said. "Our prayers and concern are with so many who experienced the trauma of these acts, most especially the loved ones of those who lives were lost and those who were injured, and the injured themselves.
After applauding the bravery and heroism of those who responded within minutes of the explosions to help the injured, he went on to encourage the faithful to turn to Jesus in the wake of this horrific event.
"In the midst of the darkness of this tragedy we turn to the light of Jesus Christ, the light that was evident in the lives of people who immediately turned to help those in need today. We stand in solidarity with our ecumenical and interfaith colleagues in the commitment to witness the greater power of good in our society and to work together for healing."
New York's Cardinal Dolan, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said that the "tragic end" of the Marathon "reminds us all that evil exists and that life is fragile."
He put out a call for prayer for "those killed, the healing of those injured, and the restoration of peace for all of us unsettled by the bombings at a world renowned sporting event."
He added: "The growing culture of violence in our world and even in our country calls for both wise security measures by government officials and an examination by all of us to see what we can personally do to enhance peace and respect for one another in our world."
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