Condolences from church leaders around the world have been sent to Spanish Christians following the recent terror attacks in Madrid.
On behalf of the Reformed Episcopal Church of Spain, which is part of the Anglican Diocese of Europe, Bishop in Madrid Carlos López Lozano issued a statement expressing the church’s ‘strongest disgust’ at the act of terrorism that left over 200 people dead and more than 1400 wounded.
On March 11 a series of 10 bombs were detonated simultaneously in peak hour commuter trains in Madrid’s central Atochi station. While Basque separatists ETA were initially blamed the focus has now shifted to al-Qa’ida, which has claimed responsibility for the attacks. The incident has been regarded as ‘Spain’s September 11’.
“For the appalling terrorist acts that occurred in Madrid this morning causing a great number of deaths and injuries, we wish to express our strongest disgust,” the statement from Bishop López read.
“We believe that life is the most precious gift from God, therefore we condemn any and all acts of violence no matter what the objective may be.
“We ask all members of our Church to pray for the families of those who died and to join the rest of our country in any demonstration of unity against these unspeakable acts of terrorism.”
In a letter to the Embassy Church of St. George, Madrid, the Bishops of the Diocese in Europe, Geoffrey Rowell and David Hamid, conveyed the assurance of their prayers and those of the diocese.
“The people of our diocese would want you to know that you are in their hearts and prayers at this time. We join with all people of good will in condemning this act of terrorism,” the letter stated.
“We pray for all the victims and for those who minister to the bereaved and injured. Above all we pray that God, who brought light out of darkness, will bring comfort and assurance to your city and people.”
A plea issued on the day of the attack called for help to minister with the families of the victims, specifically asking for church workers, pastors, teachers or people who have had experience in a disaster situation.
CMS-Australia Federal Secretary John Thew expressed CMS’s prayerful support.
“We have sent our condolences to Bishop López and we pray that at this time Spanish Christians will be able to hold out the real hope that is found in Christ.”
CMS has missionaries serving in a number of troubled areas around the world and staff in Australia remain in constant contact with them, monitoring the security situation. “We value prayer for the safety for all our people around the world as the Madrid bombings show us that in the current climate, danger is difficult to predict.”
CMS has one missionary couple in Spain, Ralph and Kylie Whitten, located in Seville, although at the time of the bombing they were in Australia. “They will be feeling for their church family back in Spain,” Mr Thew said.

With additional reporting by Matthew Davies/ENS.