Pope condoles

VATICAN CITY: Pope Benedict XVI in a message of condolence said that His Holiness was deeply saddened to learn of the great loss of life in the bus explosion in Northern Sri Lanka.

The message signed by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Secretary of State has offered his prayers during the times of sorrow.

"To the Civil and Religious Authorities in Sri Lanka

"His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI was deeply saddened to learn of the great loss of life in the bus explosion in northern Sri Lanka, and he extends heartfelt condolences to the families of those who died and assures them of his prayers during this time of sorrow.

In a special way the Holy Father appeals to all in the region to renounce violence which causes so much suffering to civilian populations, and instead to embrace the way of lasting peace. Praying for those who have been injured and for the eternal repose of the dead, he invokes upon all the afflicted the Almighty's blessings of comfort and strength."