“My thought goes out to Chile and the populations affected by the earthquake, which caused numerous losses of human life and much damage,” the Pope said today after praying the Angelus with those gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
The latest death toll climbed to 708, and authorities said some 1.5 million Chileans were affected and 500,000 homes severely damaged.
“I pray for the victims and am spiritually near to the persons tried by so grave a calamity; for them I implore from God relief from suffering and courage in these adversities,” the Holy Father said. “I am certain that they will not lack the solidarity of many, especially of ecclesial organizations.”
