CATHOLIC Primate of All Ireland Eamon Martin has said the "prayerful solidarity of people across Ireland goes to the people of Manchester" as he offered sympathy and support to the victims of the concert bomb attack.
As Greater Manchester Police continued to investigate the bombing at Manchester Arena and begin the heartbreaking task of informing families of the bereaved and injured, clergy across Ireland offered prayers for all those affected by the attack.
Archbishop Martin said "such an awful attack challenges us all to resolve personally to build peace, solidarity and hope everywhere".
"I will remember the victims of this attack and their families in my Masses and prayers, and I know that the prayerful solidarity of people across Ireland goes to the people of Manchester at this sad time," he said.
Rev Bill Mullally, President of the Methodist Church in Ireland, said he was "appalled" by what had happened.
"An attack on our young people is an attack on us all," he said.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with those families and friends who have had loved ones killed and injured, and with those who are still awaiting news of loved ones unaccounted for. In this time of distress may we continue to seek peace and unity among all peoples".
Rev Frank Sellar, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, said: "Wicked deeds deliberately inflicted on innocent people, especially where children and the young are involved, seem to cut the deepest, and I offer our support and heartfelt sympathy to everyone mourning the loss of loved ones and those hoping for good news".
Dean of Belfast, Rev John Mann, said candles were last night burning in St Anne’s Cathedral in Belfast in the aftermath of the attack. He also invited anyone wishing to light candles, to come along and do so.
"Our hearts go out to all the families involved and our prayers are with them today, and will be in the coming days as this devastating attack brings such sorrow to so many," he said.
