In the name of the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference and the entire Catholic Community in Southern Africa we express our utter disgust and horror at the acts of terrorism perpetrated in New York and Washington.

The wilful and premeditated destruction of any life is the most abhorrent act that any human being can commit. But when tens of thousands of innocent lives are deliberately destroyed, maimed or put at risk, no condemnation is severe enough.

We express our sympathy and condolences to the injured and traumatized, to their families and friends. But we remember especially those whose lives have been so cruelly snuffed out in these wanton acts of terror. We pray for them and their families and dear ones.

We pray, with all the earnestness we can muster, that these acts of terror will not launch the world community into further violent conflict and bloodshed.

May God grant the leaders of the United States of America the wisdom, courage and clarity of mind to respond to these acts of extreme callousness and savage barbarity in a manner that will serve the best interest of the whole world community.


Wilfrid Cardinal Napier OFM
President of the Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference

Bishop Michael Coleman
First Vice-President

Bishop Buti Tlhagale OMI
Second Vice President