Boston cardinal says all feel ‘deep sorrow’ for victims of explosions

By Christopher S. Pineo

BOSTON (CNS) -- Within hours of two explosions taking place near the finish line of the Boston Marathon April 15, Cardinal Sean P. O’Malley sent a message of prayer and support for those injured, their loved ones and those who experienced the trauma of the tragedy.
“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,” he said.
Close to 3 p.m., the Boston Police Department reported that officers had responded to two large explosions along the Boston Marathon route that left three people dead, including an 8-year-old boy, and more than 170 wounded.
The boy was identified as Martin Richard, whose family belongs to St. Ann Catholic Parish in Dorchester. His mother and sister were seriously injured.
“The citizens of the city of Boston and the commonwealth of Massachusetts are blessed by the bravery and heroism of many, particularly the men and women of the police and fire departments and emergency services who responded within moments of these tragic events,” the cardinal said.
Many expressed fear the explosions, which were seconds apart, were carried out by terrorists, and AP reported that federal officials were treating the bombings as an act of terrorism.
As of early April 16, no one had yet stepped forward to claim responsibility for the act, which took place on Patriot’s Day, a civic holiday in Massachusetts that commemorates the first battles of the American Revolution.
Cardinal O’Malley commended the leadership efforts of Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, Boston Mayor Thomas Menino and the city’s police commissioner, Ed Davis.
“(They) are providing the leadership that will see us through this most difficult time and ensure that proper procedures are followed to protect the public safety,” said Cardinal O’Malley, who issued his statement from the Holy Land, where he said a Mass for the family of the