Three explosions have roared in different places in the Northern Caucasus. As the criminals have willed, innocent people lost their health and life. Fragile interethnic peace in the region has been jeopardized again.

      On this tragic day I pray for the repose of those perished and for the consolation of the hearts of their near and dear ones. My special prayer is for those who are struggling now for their life because of the severe wounds inflicted on them through the acts of terrorism. May the Lord strengthen you and help you, my dear. Try to overcome your illness, as your near ones and the whole nation need you.

      I shall incessantly repeat that terrorism cannot be justified, and the response of the authorities and the army must be strict and principal. At the same time I would like to warn against revenge so that these insane crimes would not hinder the development of the wise and responsible policy of the state in the Northern Caucasus aimed at peace and complete restoration of the rule of law.

      Let these events never repeat. May the Lord save Russia from a new bloodshed as 'He frustrates the devices of the crafty, so that their hands achieve no success' (Job 5:12).

PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA

March 27, 2001