Pope Francis has expressed his closeness, prayers and affection, to our brothers and sisters of Central Italy who are suffering from new and harsh trials.
During his Sunday Angelus Address, the Pope told of his sympathy for the families whose loved ones are among the victims in the recent series of earthquakes and devastating winter weather, especially in the Italian provinces of Abruzzo, Lazio, e Le Marche.
Among the tragic events, was when the Rigopiano mountain hotel, in the Abruzzo region, hosting some 30 people was struck by an avalanche caused by the quakes, with four dead confirmed. In recent days, there was some good news that emergency workers found ten people alive in the ruins, including children, when all had been feared dead.
During his remarks, Francis thanked those who have already helped, including the local churches who “devote themselves to alleviating suffering and difficulties.”
He also, however, encouraged those who can, to be generous with aid and assistance.
The Holy Father concluded, leading the pilgrims gathered in St Peter’s Square to pray for all those affected by these events.
