Cardinal Nichols decries London terror attack, offers prayers

London, England, Sep 15, 2017 / 09:39 am

After a terrorist attack on a commuter train left more than 20 people injured in London on Friday, Cardinal Vincent Nichols of Westminster decried the act as cowardly and offered his prayers for peace.

"I am dismayed at yet another cowardly attack on innocent people, including young children, as they were commuting to work and school this morning," he said in a Sept. 15 statement.

"I pray for all who were injured in the blast and in the ensuing stampede, and for all who were affected by the incident. May God grant them and all Londoners peace and strengthen our resolve to stand against such evil acts."

During morning rush hour an impoverished explosive device was detonated on a commuter train at Parsons Green station in southwest London. At least 22 people were taken to the hospital to be treated for injuries, which were primarily burns, local authorities reported.

Authorities have reported that a timer was found on the device, indicating it likely was meant for much greater destruction than what it achieved.

The incident is being treated by officials as a terror attack, and a manhunt is underway for the perpetrators. This is the fourth terror attack in London this year.

In addition to offering his prayers for the victims, Cardinal Nichols also thanked the emergency responders as well as those living and working near the station where the incident occurred who also offered their assistance.

"The generous actions of those who rushed to tend to the wounded and those who were in shock demonstrate all that is good in humanity as a small number seek to divide our society. We should all be alert, but remain calm."

Thus far, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.