Cardinal Nichols calls for 'prayer, solidarity & calm' after Westminster terrorist attack

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, who is Archbishop of Westminster and president of the bishops' conference of England and Wales, said this morning:

Yesterday’s attacks in Westminster have shocked us all. The kind of violence we have seen all too often in other places has again brought horror and killing to this city.

I know you will lead people in prayer, especially for those who have lost their lives and those who have lost one they love. Pray for Aysha Frade, killed by the car on Westminster Bridge. Her two children attend St Mary of the Angels Primary School. Pray for them and for their father. And please remember the young French students who have been injured.

We remember too all who have been injured, and those who care for them.

We pray in particular as well for Keith Palmer, the police officer who died, and for his family, thanking God that so many show such brave dedication to keeping our society safe.

Let our voice be one of prayer, of compassionate solidarity, and of calm. All who believe in God, Creator and Father of every person, will echo this voice, for faith in God is not a problem to be solved, but a strength and a foundation on which depend.

Meanwhile, Pope Francis has sent a message to Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, assuring the nation of his prayers.

Deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and of the injuries caused by the attack in central London, His Holiness Pope Francis expresses his prayerful solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy.Commending those who have died to the loving mercy of Almighty God, His Holiness invokes divine strength and peace upon their grieving families, and he assures the nation of his prayers at this time.Cardinal Pietro ParolinSecretary of State