Pope's Telegram for Nepal Tragedy

Below is the telegram Pope Francis sent Saturday for the earthquake tragedy in Nepal:

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The Right Reverend Paul Simick
Bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Nepal

His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened to learn of the earthquake and the resultant loss of many hundreds of lives in Nepal, as well as in neighbouring Countries. He expresses his solidarity with all affected by this disaster and assures those who grieve for deceased family members of his closeness in prayer. His Holiness commends the souls of the victims to the loving mercy of the Almighty and he offers encouragement to the civil authorities and emergency personnel as they continue their rescue efforts and assistance to those touched by this tragedy. Upon them all he invokes the blessings of the Almighty as a pledge of healing and consolation.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State

[Original Text: English]