Thursday, July 25, 2013

Condolences to Compostela


There was a train disaster yesterday in Spain, not far from Santiago de Compostela.  Having heard about it, Pope Francis sent a telegram of condolence to the Archbishop of Santiago de Compostela from Rio de Janeiro, where he is currently attending the XXVIII World Youth Day celebrations.

  

Telegram of condolence sent by His Holiness, Pope Francis
to the Archbishop of Santiago de Compostela

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Julian Barrio Barrio
Archbishop of Santiago de Compostela

Having heard about the serious railway accident which occurred near Santiago de Compostela, which has left many victims and wounded, the Holy Father is deeply distressed and offers a fervent prayer to the Lord for all the deceased and the victims of this tragic event.

With sentiments of deep sadness, I ask Your Excellency the courtesy of conveying to those who have suffered this disgrace, and to their families, my spiritual closeness, my fraternal affection and my emotional solidarity, assuring them at the same time of my prayers for the deceased and for all those who are suffering at this time, asking God to protect them and to bring them back to full health.

On this day, when the Church is recommended to the intercession of the Apostle of Compostela, celestial patron of Spain and witness to the risen Christ, along with my expressions of encouragement for all the children of that noble land, I cordially impart a special Apostolic Blessing, that it may bring with it the hope that comes from faith in the comfort offered by authentic love.

Francis, Pope

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