Pope Francis has sent his condolences August 16, 2017 to the loved ones of the victims of the floods and tragic mudslide early August 14 in Sierra Leone’s capital of Freetown. More than 300 have been reported killed, but the number is expected to rise.
The Holy Father reminded the faithful after yesterday’s Angelus of the importance of trusting in Mary during times of trouble:
“I wish to entrust once again to Mary Queen of Peace, whom we contemplate today in the glory of Paradise, the anxieties and sorrows of the populations that in so many parts of the world suffer from natural disasters, from social tensions and from conflicts. May our celestial Mother obtain for all consolation and a future of serenity and concord!”
Below is the Vatican-provided text of his message, sent on behalf of the Pope from Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin to Archbishop Charles Edward Tamba of Freetown:
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The Right Reverend Charles Edward Tamba
Archbishop of Freetown
Deeply saddened by the devastating consequences of the mudslide on the outskirts of Freetown, His Holiness Pope Francis assures those who have lost loved ones of his closeness at this difficult time. He prays for all who have died, and upon their grieving families and friends he invokes the divine blessings of strength and consolation. His Holiness likewise expresses his prayerful solidarity with the rescue workers and all involved in providing the much needed relief and support to the victims of this disaster.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State
[Original text: English] [Vatican-provided text]
