The officers were gunned down and the city was locked down for more than 24 hours as police sought the suspect in the shootings.

In a letter dated June 6, CCCB president Archbishop Paul-André Durocher conveyed on behalf of himself and the Catholic bishops of Canada “our prayers and sympathies for the families and friends of the deceased and the wounded in the recent tragic shootings in Moncton of members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.”

“May Our Lord help comfort the community in this moment of pain and loss, and bring healing to the hearts and minds of all who have been hurt — physically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually,” said Durocher.

“I would also ask you to assure those affected that their sufferings are shared by all Canadians, and by all who in Christ's wish to bring comfort and healing,” the archbishop said. “My fellow bishops and I also wish to encourage and thank those in your city, a number of whom at the risk of their own lives and safety, helped to extend assistance to those in danger and to limit the impact of this terrible and senseless violence.”

The slain Mounties have been identified as Constable Dave Ross, 32, from Victoriaville, Que., Constable Fabrice Georges Gevaudan, 45, originally from Boulogne-Billancourt, France; and Constable Douglas James Larche, 40, from Saint John, N.B. Two other officers were wounded and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Justin Bourque, a 24-year old Moncton man, was arrested at 12:10 a.m. June 6 in connection with the shootings. He has been charged with murder and attempted murder. He did not enter a plea and is expected back in court in early July.