In response to the horrific tragedy at the Newtown, Connecticut elementary school and the deaths of students and staff, I ask everyone to remember the victims, their families, and the wider community in your prayers.

"May those who have died, experience God's merciful love and eternal rest and peace."

USCCB committees Call for Action in response to Newtown tragedy>


Telegram for the "Senseless Tragedy" at Sandy Hook Elementary School

Vatican City, 15 December 2012 (VIS) - A telegram of condolence was sent in the Holy Father's name by Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisco Bertone S.D.B. to Msgr. Jerald A. Doyle, diocesan administrator of Bridgeport, United States of America, following the assassination of 26 people - twenty children and six adults - by a lone gunman at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.

Benedict XVI expressed his heartfelt grief and assured his closeness in prayer to the victims, their families and all those affected by this shocking event.  "In the aftermath of this senseless tragedy he asks God our Father to console all those who mourn and to sustain the entire community with the spiritual strength which triumphs over violence by the power of forgiveness, hope and reconciling love".



God of all mercies, God of all consolation,

comfort us in our afflictions that we might comfort those who are in trouble with the same consolation we have received.

Grant this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

—from Catholic Household Blessings & Prayers, Prayer in Time of Suffering and Need.

UPDATED (From LPi):

 Everyone at LPi is keeping the community of Newtown, CT in our thoughts and prayers.

All LPi printing partners already have an account for Art & Media Portal. However if you know of churches who do not work with LPi but may want to use the cover, please let them know they can visit portal.4lpi.com and register for an account to download the cover. They should put NEWTOW in the ChurchID field for immediate access to all of the content on Art & Portal for 90 days.