Pope condemns “blind violence” in terrorist attacks in Spain

Pope Francis sends message of condolence to victims of attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils.

Pope Francis is again condemning the “blind violence” that this time has struck in Barcelona and Cambrils, Spain, saying it is a “most grave offense against the Creator.”

A message to Cardinal Juan José Omella y Omella, archbishop of Barcelona, from the pope’s secretary of state, assured the pope’s “deepest sympathy for the victims who have lost their lives in an act that is so inhuman.”

The archbishop was just made a cardinal this summer.

In two separate incidents on Thursday and this morning, vehicles were rammed into crowds. Investigators have determined that bigger attacks with explosives were planned, but then simplified to vehicle attacks after the terrorists’ materials detonated prematurely.

Thirteen people died in Barcelona on Thursday night, on the boulevard of Las Ramblas, as a van zig-zagged down the famous tourist location.

Then hours later, five suspected terrorists were killed by police after a second vehicle attack in the town of Cambrils, some 70 miles southwest of Barcelona. A woman injured in that attack later died in the hospital, meaning there were 14 victims of the twin attacks, besides the attackers.

Police say the men killed in the second attack are linked to the Barcelona violence. Islamic State said the attackers were their “soldiers.”

The papal message lamented the “cruel” terrorism that has “sown death and sorrow” and offered prayers for the eternal rest of the dead.

The pope assured his support and closeness for the many wounded, their families, and the whole Catalan and Spanish society

“Once again, the Holy Father condemns blind violence, a most grave offense against the Creator, and raises his prayer to the Most High, that He might help us to continue working with determination for the peace and concord of the world,” the message concluded, with the assurance of the apostolic blessing.