Pope Francis has expressed his closeness to the people of China, in the wake of a ferryboat capsizing earlier this week.
During his weekly General Audience, while giving his greetings to the English-speaking pilgrims, the Holy Father said: «In a particular way I wish to express my closeness to the Chinese people in these difficult moments after the ferry disaster in the Yangtze River.»
On Monday night, the Eastern Star’ cruise ship, carrying 456 people, capsized in stormy weather in the middle of the Yangtze River, reported the official broadcaster China Central Television.
Only 14 have been rescued. About the same time as the disaster, a tornado struck the area, Chinese weather officials said. Hopes for finding survivors are fading.
«I pray for the victims, their families and for all involved in the rescue efforts” Pope Francis said.
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On ZENIT’s Web page:
Full Translation: http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/general-audience-on-poverty-and-the-family
