MESSAGE FOR THE FUNERAL MASS
OF THE VICTIMS OF THE TERRORIST ATTACK
ON THE SYRO-CATHOLIC CATHEDRAL IN BAGHDAD

2 November 2010

To Archbishop Athanase Matti Shaba Matoka
Archbishop of Baghdad of the Republic of Iraq for the Syro-Catholics

Deeply shocked by the violent death of so many faithful and of Frs Tha'ir Saad and Boutros Wasim, I desire, on this occasion of the Sacred Rite of the funerals, to be spiritually present, by praying that these brothers and sisters may be welcomed by the merciful Christ to the House of the Father.

For many years, this beloved country has suffered unspeakable hardship and Christians have also become an object of heinous attacks with total lack of respect for life, the inviolable gift of God, desiring to undermine trust and civil coexistence.

I renew my Appeal so that the sacrifice of these brothers and sisters of ours may be a seed of peace and true rebirth, and because many have reconciliation at heart, brotherly and supportive coexistence, so that they may find reason and the strength to do good.

Dear brothers, sisters and children, I willingly extend my Apostolic Blessing to the wounded and to your families so gravely tried.

BENEDICT XVI

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