Pope Francis on March 6, 2018, expressed his sadness and condolences for the victims of the recent earthquake in Papua New Guinea. He offered his prayers and closeness in a telegram from Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State:
It was with great sadness that His Holiness Pope Francis learned of the tragic loss of life following the recent earthquake in Papua New Guinea. Commending the souls of the deceased to the mercy of Almighty God, he sends his heartfelt condolences to their families, and he assures all those affected by this disaster of his closeness in prayer. Upon all those who mourn at this difficult time, and upon the emergency personnel involved in the important relief efforts, Pope Francis willingly invokes the divine blessings of strength and consolation.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State
The February 26, 2018, earthquake killed a reported 67. A second quake occurred early morning of March 7, 2018 (local time).
