Pope Offers Condolences For Texas Mass Shooting Victims

AUSTIN, TX — Pope Francis this week sent a telegram to the archbishop of San Antonio to express condolences over the victims of a mass shooting in Sutherland Springs, Texas.

The telegram from Pope Francis was sent Tuesday by the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, ABC News reported. The message read that the pope was "...deeply grieved by news of the loss of life and grave injuries caused by the act of senseless violence." The pontiff's condolences were meant for "the families of the victims and the wounded, to the members of the congregation and the entire local community," according to the telegraphed missive.

The Holy See offered prayers for mourners in granting them "...the spiritual strength that triumphs over violence and hatred by the power of forgiveness, hope and reconciling love," according to the report.

A mass shooter killed 26 parishioners of the First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs, Texas, on Sunday as they worshiped in a late morning mass. The victims ranged in age from 17 months to 71 years.

Also See: Texas Vigil: 'I'm Here To Support Them'

>>> Photo: Pope Francis arrives for his weekly general audience, in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2017. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)