Pope Francis expresses sorrow for wildfire victims in Portugal
(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis sent a letter on Monday to express his sorrow over the loss of life and property in Portugal, where wildfires have killed at least 4 people and caused hundreds to evacuate their homes.
Listen to Devin Watkins’ report:
The letter – addressed to the bishop of Funchal, Antonio Carrilho, and signed by the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin – was read out during the celebration of Holy Mass for Our Lady of the Mount, Patroness of Funchal.
In the message, Pope Francis said he is “appalled by the sad news of the terrible fires raging on the island of Madeira” and expressed his “condolences and participation in the pain” of all those affected.
The Holy Father also conveyed “solidarity and spiritual closeness” for those displaced by the wildfires and prayed for the quick healing of the wounded and “courage and consolation in Christian hope” for all involved.
Finally, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude for the more than 2,000 firefighters battling the flames which have killed 5 people: 4 on the Portugese island of Madeira and 1 in neighboring Spain.
During his homily for the celebration of Our Lady of the Mount in which the message was read, Bishop Carrilho repeated the Pope’s message of sorrow.
“We cannot but remember those who have died and express our deepest solidarity to all who have experienced angst and suffering, in particular those who have lost their homes and belongings.”
Bishop Carrilho then praised the many “acts of solidarity” performed in the face of danger and the “strength and courage” of the Portugese people.