Pope expresses horror at 'barbaric killing' of priest inside French church

Pope Francis has expressed his horror at the “barbaric killing” of a priest during a hostage-taking at a church in France today.

“The pope shares the pain and horror of this absurd violence,” Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said, adding that the attack created “immense pain and worry”.

Francis issued “the most severe condemnation of all forms of hatred” and said he was appalled “because this horrific violence took place in a church, a sacred place” and involved the “barbaric” killing of a priest.