Pope Benedict XVI Responds To Sandy Hook Tragedy

The recent massacre in Newtown, Connecticut has made headlines across the country.

The shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School has drawn a mix of emotions from all over the nation. Anger, confusion, and sadness are just some of the emotions that the Sandy Hook shooting has generated.

This tragic incident has even reached the ears of Pope Benedict XVI, and his reaction is no different.

According to NBC News, Pope Benedict XVI recently spoke to a crowd in Saint Peter’s Square, Vatican City. During his Sunday address, the Pope spoke about his overwhelming sadness for those affected by the Sandy Hook shooting.

The Pope told the crowd gathered in Saint Peter’s Square”

“I was deeply saddened by Friday’s senseless violence in Newtown, Connecticut.”

He continued:

“I assure the families of the victims, especially those who lost a child, of my closeness in prayer. May the God of consolation touch their hearts and ease their pain. During this Advent Season, let us dedicate ourselves more fervently to prayer and to acts of peace. Upon those affected by this tragedy, and upon each of you, I invoke God’s abundant blessings!”

According to the Examiner, a letter was read from Pope Benedict XVI at an evening vigil for the victims of the December 14 massacre. Pope Benedict’s letter offered words of hope to those who gathered at Saint Rose of Lima Roman Catholic Church in Newtown.

Pope Benedict wrote:

“I ask God our father to console all those who mourn and to sustain the entire community with the spiritual strength which triumphs over violence by the power of forgiveness, hope and reconciling love.”

During the vigil, a candle was lit for each victim of the Sandy Hook tragedy.