The ETA statement, published in Basque newspapers on April 20, said it regretted the harm caused by its violent campaign for an independent homeland.

"Let us all unite in our efforts to bring comfort and care to those who are hurting today."

A clampdown on religious freedom has intensified in the province in recent months.

Immigration officials have accused the nun, who has worked in rural communities for 27 years, of being an "undesirable alien" for joining protest rallies and visiting political prisoners.

The 15 dead included 10 hockey players between the ages of 16 and 21, the team coach, radio broadcaster, bus driver and other team personnel.

Manila Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle washed the feet of a priest who had been held captive for months and the parents of a slain Filipino migrant worker.

In reflecting on Rev. King's life and work, "what are we being asked to do for the sake of our brother or sister who still suffers under the weight of racism?"

Bishop Edwin de la Pena of Marawi assured Catholics in the region that other parishes not affected by the fighting will continue their ministries.

Cardinal Dolan wrote an opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal this morning.

Retired Archbishop Henryk Muszynski of Gniezno said the Polish government "still relentlessly insists it won't accept a single one."