Pope Benedict
expressed sympathy Saturday for the victims of a suspected right-wing
zealot who killed up to 98 people in a shooting spree and bomb attack
and urged Norwegians to reject hatred and violence.
In a message to Norway's King
Harald, the Vatican said the pontiff had been "profoundly saddened" by
the attacks in the government district of Oslo and on Utoeya island
northwest of the capital.
"His
Holiness Pope Benedict XVI offers fervent prayers for the victims and
their families, invoking God's peace upon the dead and divine
consolation upon those who suffer," a statement said.
"At
this time of national grief he prays that all Norwegians will be
spiritually united in a determined resolve to reject the ways of hatred
and conflict and to work together fearlessly in shaping a future of
mutual respect, solidarity and freedom for coming generations."