Pope Francis calls for prayers following terror attacks in Spain, Finland

New attack in Finland as call for peace goes out.

Pope Francis has asked the world to pray for peace and healing in the wake of terror attacks in Spain which left 14 dead and up to 130 injured. This news comes as reports emerge of yet another attack in Finland, by a knife-wielding attacker. It is unclear if the attack in Finland is related to Islamic terrorism.

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) -- Pope Francis has issued a statement asking the world to pray for the victims of the terror attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils in Spain, yesterday. Those attacks killed 14 people. In addition to prayers for the victims, the Pope would like everyone to pray for healing and peace.

Five terrorists were killed and one suspect remains at large following two attacks yesterday. The first was in Barcelona where terrorists drove a van down a crowded public street, hitting over 100 people before stopping.

The driver was seen running into a crowd of people following the attack and is thought to still be at large.

Later, five men were shot dead in the town of Cambrils after they attempted a similar attack which killed one person.

Another four suspects are being sought by authorities as they hunt the remaining members of what is being described as a terrorist cell. According to reports, U.S. officials warned Spain that a terror cell was planning an attack in Barcelona. The terrorists planned to use explosives in the attack. It is not known why they changed their plan.

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

As the Pope issued his statement, a knife attack took place in Finland, but it is unclear if it too is related to Islamic terrorism. That attack appears to have hurt five people and killed one woman with a baby. More may be dead. The suspected attacker was shot dead by police. That story is developing.

It is important that all Christians pray for the repose of the dead, and the healing of the injured. We must pray for peace. We must also work for peace. Vigilance against terrorism is critical. We must not however, cower in fear.

The end of the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq is near. As the terror organization dies, it is hoped support for terrorism dies with them. In Syria, the final stronghold of ISIS, Raqqa, is under assault with allied forces supporting local militias.