His Holiness Patriarch Kirill’s condolences over terrorist attack in Berlin
His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia sent a message to German Chancellor Angela Merkel, expressing his condolences over a terrorist attack in Berlin. In the evening of 19 December 2016, a truck ploughed into a crowd of people at a Christmas market in the centre of the German capital. The tragedy that killed 12 people and left 48 injured was said to be an act of terrorism. The text of the letter is given below.
Her Excellency Ms Angela Merkel
Chancellor
Federal Republic of Germany
Your Excellency,
Dear Ms Chancellor,
I was deeply grieved to learn about the terrorist attack that killed and injured many people at a traditional Christmas market in Berlin. Please accept my sincere condolences.
This atrocity calls for resolute condemnation, as well as for concerted actions of state, religious and public leaders and all people of good will, in order to stop the spread of violence.
The Russian Orthodox Church, which has a large flock in Berlin and in other parts of Germany, shares the grief of the German people.
May the Lord grant speedy recovery to the injured and consolation to all those affected by this tragedy.
With condolences,
+KIRILL
PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA