It has been with profound sorrow and revulsion that we have been following the accounts of the acts of terrorism carried out on the people of New York and at the Pentagon Building.

We extend our sympathy and condolences to all the victims of this outrage. Throughout Japan Christians and those of other faiths have spontaneously prayed for the dead and suffering. Numerous masses have been offered for the repose of their souls in our churches.

We pray that the Holy Spirit will grant consolation and courage to the people of the United States so that despite this tragedy, the U.S. will continue to be a beacon of truth and peacemaker in our world.


Augustine Junichi Nomura
President
Catholic Bishops Conference of Japan