'We cry for justice as we pray for peace'
Manila archdiocese laments 'loss of innocent faithful' in Marawi bombing incident
The Archdiocese of Manila, in a statement on Monday, Dec. 4, lamented the loss of innocent faithful lives that were snatched away while seeking spiritual solace.

Days after the commemoration of Red Wednesday, which highlighted the persecution faced by Christians for their beliefs, a tragic incident happened at Marawi State University (MSU) during a Holy Eucharist gathering on the first Sunday of Advent.
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"It is such an irony that days after celebrating Red Wednesday, giving recognition to Christians who were persecuted on account of their faith," the archdiocese said.
"We cry for justice as we pray for peace," it added.
The archdiocese extended its deepest sympathy to the bereaved families and expressed its solidarity with the victims and their loved ones.
"We are one with their families. We are praying for those who were killed and injured. We express our closeness to those who are suffering from shock and trauma because of this heinous act," the statement read.
The Archdiocese also called on the authorities to bring the perpetrators of the bombing to justice.
"We appeal to the authorities to bring a just and quick resolution to this massacre of the innocents," it said.
"As for you who have done this merciless crime, we are praying for your conversion. May the Lord touch your heart so that you may realize the evil you have done and make right your brutal wrongdoing," the statement added.
While condemning the violence, the Archdiocese also emphasized the importance of seeking lasting peace in Mindanao and the entire country.
They also called for a collective effort to embrace peace and accept those things that lead to peace.