Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Condolences to Oklahoma

The Holy Father, Pope Francis has sent a telegram to the Archbishop of Oklahoma City to express his deep concern for the victims, injured and homeless in the wake of a devastating tornado.


Telegram of condolence
sent on behalf of the Holy Father, Pope Francis
to His Excellency, Paul S. Coakley
Archbishop of Oklahoma City, USA

His Excellency, Paul S. Coakley
Archbishop of Oklahoma City

Your Excellency,

The Holy Father has followed with deep concern the aftermath of the devastating tornado which has struck Oklahoma and he asks you convey to the entire community the assurance of his solidarity and closeness in prayer. Conscious of the tragic loss of life and the immensity of the work of rebuilding that lies ahead, he asks Almighty God to grant eternal rest to the departed, comfort to the afflicted, and strength and hope to the homeless and the injured. In a particular way he commends to the Father of mercies the many young children among the victims and their grieving families. Upon the local civil and religious leaders, and upon all involved in the relief efforts, His Holiness invokes the Risen Lord’s gifts of consolation, strength and perseverance in every good.

His Eminence, Tarcisio Cardinal Bertone
Vatican Secretary of State


Declaration of His Excellency, Paul S. Coakley
We will walk together

As the death toll remains uncertain in Oklahoma following Monday's massive tornado, the local archbishop is assuring the Church's spiritual presence and practical assistance. Archbishop Paul Coakley of Oklahoma City noted that his initial primary concern is for the victims, and he expressed his gratitude and promise of prayer for the first responders.

As soon as possible, I will be on site in Moore to help support and offer comfort and consolation to anyone who might need or desire it, he said this morning. We draw hope in such times from Jesus’ invitation to the weary or troubled to come to Him and find rest.

Catholic Charities [Oklahoma City] and we as an archdiocese will work with many others to ensure a smooth and comprehensive response not only to the immediate needs of those affected by the violent storms, but also to their longterm needs as they rebuild their lives. We’re there for the long term and we’re usually the last ones to leave.

Archbishop Coakley also noted the flood of inquiries and assurances of prayers from people across the country and around the world, including the Holy Father Pope Francis, the apostolic nuncio Archbishop Carlo Maria ViganĂ³ and Cardinal Timothy Dolan, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. We are deeply grateful.

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