Pope Francis Invokes Blessed Mary’s “consolation” for Victims of Cameroon’s Attack

In a solidarity message addressed to Bishop Nkuo that ACI Africa obtained Tuesday, February 27, the Holy Father prayed for the “intercession of the Virgin Mary to bring strength and consolation to all who are affected by this drama.”

“His Holiness Pope Francis was saddened to learn of the tragic bomb explosion that occurred in Nkambe on February 11, and the loss of human life it caused,” the message that was signed by the Secretary of State, Pietro Cardinal Parolin, reads in part.

The message continues, His holiness “joins in the mourning of the families, showing them his closeness and his pain.”

Praying for the eternal rest of the dead, entrusting them to the mercy of God, the 266th Catholic Pontiff also wishes quick recovery and healing for the wounded.

Pope Francis reiterates his message of respecting sacred places that he had given in his condolence message following Sunday's attack on a Church and mosque killing dozens in Burkina Faso.

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“As a sign of comfort, the Holy Father invokes on the Cameroonian people and the entire nation divine blessings,” reads the February 27 solidarity message.

Cameroon’s English-speaking regions plunged into conflict in 2016 after a protest by lawyers and teachers turned violent. An armed movement of separatists claiming independence for the so-called Republic of Ambazonia emerged following the government’s crackdown on protesters. 

School boycotts have become common in these areas, as have enforced moratoriums on public life, resulting in what is known as "ghost towns".

Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.