WASHINGTON (July 30, 1997) -- Archbishop Theodore E. McCarrick, Chairman of the U.S. Catholic Conference's International Policy Committee, condemned today's double bombing in Jerusalem, calling it a "reprehensible act of terrorism."

Archbishop McCarrick called on the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority to return to the negotiating table to resolve their differences.

The full text of his statement follows:

The double bombing today of the Mahene Yehuda market in Jerusalem is a reprehensible act of terrorism. Nothing can justify random acts of terror against innocent civilians.

I extend to the people of Jerusalem and of Israel our profound condolences on the death of their fellow citizens. We pray for the recovery of the survivors and for the families of the victims. May the slain know the mercy of God.

We entreat the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority to double their efforts to resolve their differences through negotiation.

We urge political authorities and civic leaders on both sides to refrain from acts which risk inflaming popular opinion or degrading or harming members of the other group and to endeavor to build a common future with practical measures which contribute to a life of peace for both peoples.

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