During the Angelus of March 12, 2017, Pope Francis expressed his “closeness” to the people of Guatemala, afflicted by the “serious and sad fire,” which happened a few days ago, March 8, in a home for minors, resulting in some 40 victims among the girls who lived there.
The “Virgin of the Assumption” Home, located in San Jose Pinuelo, near Guatemala’s capital, received young victims of domestic violence or homeless girls, but recently, the hosts had complained of mistreatment. Some twenty adolescents are still in a critical state after the tragedy.
“May the Lord welcome their souls, heal the wounds, console their mourning families and the whole nation,” said the Pope from St. Peter’s Square. Then he appealed for prayer for all young victims of violence in the world, a “scourge” that cannot be ignored.
