Letter from Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew on the Marathon Tragedy
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Your Eminence Metropolitan Methodios of Boston, beloved brother and concelebrant in Christ: grace and peace be with you from above.
It is with sentiments of profound sorrow that we have been witnessing the appalling and devastating events of violence and terror that marred this year's Boston Marathon, shocking the city of Boston, the American nation, and the whole world.
We join you, dear brother, as well as the world community in expressing our utter shock at this senseless assault and our outright condemnation of this unjustifiable tragedy, while at the same time interceding with our loving God for the mourning families of the many innocent victims. Who could even begin to fathom the suffering of parents grieving for a delightful boy, a promising student, or a radiant woman? We pray for the healing of all those who suffered irreparable loss.
We recognize that the Boston Marathon enjoys an almost sacred character for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts inasmuch as it falls on a day of patriotic remembrance and communal celebration. Therefore, we ask that you convey our wholehearted support and blessings to the government officials and police services in this time of trial, especially to the esteemed Mayor Thomas Menino of Boston and Governor Deval Patrick for their sensitive roles of response and responsibility at this critical hour. We have been deeply touched by the innumerable acts of compassion the part of medical professionals and heroic volunteers - who hastened to limit the loss and contribute to the healing of the local community.
May the God of all life and true peace grant rest to the souls of the deceased victims, healing to the wounded Individuals, as well as strength to their families and the entire community of Boston.
At the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the 16th of April, 2013
Your Eminence's beloved brother in Christ,
+ BARTHOLOMEW
Archbishop of Constantinople-New Rome
and Ecumenical Patriarch
