Pope Francis condemns the killing of MP David Amess during his Sunday greeting

Pope Francis condemns the killing of MP David Amess during his Sunday greeting
Pope Francis condemns the killing of MP David Amess during his Sunday greeting

The Pope has condemned recent attacks around the world, including on MP David Amess in Essex, consoling the families of victims and calling violence 'a defeat for everyone.' 

He waved to and greeted the public in St Peter's Square for his Sunday remarks and blessings which he delivered from a window in the Apostolic Palace.

Pope Francis then said:  'Last week various attacks were carried out, for example in Norway, Afghanistan, England, which caused many deaths and injuries.

'I express my closeness to the families of the victims.

'I implore you, please, to abandon the path of violence, which is always a losing one, is a defeat for all. Let's remember that violence generates violence.'

The Pope has condemned recent attacks around the world, including on MP David Amess in Essex, consoling the families of victims and calling violence 'a defeat for everyone' (pictured)

The Pope has condemned recent attacks around the world, including on MP David Amess in Essex, consoling the families of victims and calling violence 'a defeat for everyone' (pictured)

The Pope's comments and calls for peace came on the day of a special Church service vigil for MP David Amess.

Mr Amess was fatally stabbed on Friday at a constituency surgery in Belfairs Methodist Church, Leigh-on-Sea.

He was a Catholic himself and members of his Leigh-on-Sea community came together tonight at the church of St Michael's and All Angels to light candles and remember him.    

MP David Amess (pictured) was fatally stabbed at a constituency surgery on Friday and today a special Church service was held in his memory at St Michael's and All Angels Church in Leigh-on-Sea

MP David Amess (pictured) was fatally stabbed at a constituency surgery on Friday and today a special Church service was held in his memory at St Michael's and All Angels Church in Leigh-on-Sea

Candles were lit by parishioners at the end of today's service in his memory (pictured)

Candles were lit by parishioners at the end of today's service in his memory (pictured)

Piles of floral tributes were also placed outside the church by mourners today, including Conservative MP Mark Francois, who was visibly emotional.

Mr Francois said: 'He was the best bloke I ever knew.'   

Others attended a vigil at St Peter's Church in Eastwood, Essex, on Friday in memory of Mr Amess.

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