Pope Prays for Those Suffering the Cold Spell

At the conclusion of the general audience in Paul VI Hall, the Pope said: "In recent weeks a wave of cold and frost have battered several regions of Europe causing great inconvenience and considerable damage, as we know. I wish to express my closeness to the peoples hit by such severe weather, and I invite everyone to pray for the victims and for their families and loved ones. 

"At the same time, I encourage solidarity so that the persons tried by these tragic events may receive generous assistance."

On Sunday, after praying the midday Angelus with those gathered on a snowy St. Peter's Square, the Holy Father said: "Snow is beautiful but we hope that spring will come soon!"