RELIGIOUS and political leaders have reacted with shock and revulsion after more than 140 people were killed in Easter Sunday blasts targeting churches and hotels in Sri Lanka.
At least eight explosions hit three churches and hotels frequented by foreign tourists.
Prayers for the casualties of the terror attacks have been offered at Oxfordshire churches during Easter Sunday services this morning.
All Saints Sisters of the Poor, a community of nuns based in East Oxford, is among those that have shared their prayers.
Christ is risen He is risen indeed- and even as we joyfully say these words, we pray for those killed in Sri Lanka - same words on their lips
— All Saints Sisters of the Poor (@asspcommunity) April 21, 2019
Jesus have mercy
The first blast ripped through St Anthony's Shrine in Colombo. Reports say buildings in the surrounding area shook with the blast.
A second explosion was reported at St Sebastian's Church in Negombo, a Catholic majority town north of Colombo. Churches in Batticaloa and Colombo's Kochchikade district were also targeted during Easter services.
The Shangri-La, Kingsbury, Cinnamon Grand and a fourth hotel, all in Colombo, were also hit.
Some of the blasts are believed to have been caused by suicide bombers.
Wallingford resident Chris Hill tweeted that his friend was among survivors of the attacks, saying he was 'distraught' by what has happened.
#SriLanka Lanka. My heart bleeds. Just found out one of my colleagues was in one of the churches that was bombed. He's shaken up but a friend of his was killed. Beyond distraught.
— Chris Hill (@chilloxon) April 21, 2019
An Oxford United fan described Sri Lanka as 'the most beautiful country' he has visited, while another Oxford resident said she was 'devastated' by the news.
What the hell is happening in Sri Lanka 🙁 the most beautiful country I’ve visited ! And the people ( well it seems most of them !) calm and very welcoming
— Colin- Oxford UK (@colwebs) April 21, 2019
Devastated by this news this morning 💔 Sri Lanka stole my heart within minutes of arriving, not only for its beauty but the kindness of its residents who made me, and my SLV friends feel so welcome. My heart goes out to all those who’ve been affected 🇱🇰 https://t.co/rv4CCNpxVH
— Chloe Johnson (@chlo_aj) April 21, 2019
A curfew has been imposed and the government said there would a temporary block on the use of major social media networks.
Rayhan Rashid, founder of the International Crimes Strategy Forum based in Oxford, tweeted: "Another day of horror, this time in Sri Lanka, perpetrated by terrorists. Our world is dying.
"It is only matter of years all the ways and structures of our existing societies will begin to collapse. Humanity, sanity and harmony must prevail."
The attacks targeting Christians overshadowed Pope Francis's traditional Easter Mass at the Vatican. He did not deliver the traditional homily.
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said: "Those affected by the appalling and despicable attacks on churches and hotels in Sri Lanka will be in the prayers of millions marking Easter Sunday around the world today.
"On this holy day, let us stand with the people of Sri Lanka in prayer, condolence and solidarity as we reject all violence, all hatred and all division."
Prime Minister Theresa May said: "The acts of violence against churches and hotels in Sri Lanka are truly appalling, and my deepest sympathies go out to all of those affected at this tragic time.
"We must stand together to make sure that no one should ever have to practise their faith in fear."
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: "I'm appalled by the horrific attacks in Sri Lanka, on Easter Sunday, the most important day in the Christian calendar.
"I stand with the victims, their families, the people of Sri Lanka and Christians around the world. We must defeat this hatred with unity, love and respect."
* Were you, or anyone you know, affected by the Sri Lankan terror attacks? Contact the Oxford Mail newsroom on 01865 425444, email news@nqo.com or find us on Facebook or on twitter at @TheOxfordMail
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