Pope John Paul II expressed horror at "inhuman terrorist attacks"

CNS from 9/11/2001:

Pope John Paul II said he was horrified at the "inhuman terrorist attacks" in the United States and offered prayers for the victims and all Americans in "this dark and tragic moment."

The pope, who followed news of the Sept. 11 attacks from his summer residence outside Rome, sent an unusually speedy telegram to President Bush several hours after the attacks began.

"Shocked by the unspeakable horror of today's inhuman terrorist attacks against innocent people in different parts of the United States, I hurry to express to you and your fellow citizens my profound sorrow and my closeness in prayer for the nation at this dark and tragic moment," the papal telegram said.

"Commending the victims to almighty God's eternal mercy, I implore his strength upon all involved in rescue efforts and in caring for the survivors. I beg God to sustain you and the American people in this hour of suffering and trial," he said.