In a telegram sent to Archbishop Piero Pioppo, Apostolic Nuncio in Indonesia, Pope Francis has sent his condolences for a tragic plane crash in the country.
The message, sent on behalf of the Holy Father by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, states that the Pontiff «offers the assurance of his prayers for all who have died and for those who mourn their loss.»
Pope Francis concludes, praying: «Upon the nation and all involved in the rescue and recovery efforts His Holiness invokes the strength and peace of Almighty God.»
According to officials, the Indonesia Lion Air flight crashed Monday, Oct. 29, into the sea with 189 aboard, including three children, and no survivors are expected. The Boeing 737-800 aircraft had just taken off from the Indonesian capital of Jakarta and was en route toward Sumatra.
Here is the Vatican-provided text of the telegram:
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Having learned with sadness of the recent plane crash in Jakarta, His Holiness Pope Francis conveys his condolences to all those affected by this tragedy. He offers the assurance of his prayers for all who have died and for those who mourn their loss. Upon the nation and all involved in the rescue and recovery efforts His Holiness invokes the strength and peace of Almighty God.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State
[Vatican-provided text]
