Concern for Indonesia

This past week, violent earthquakes and tsunami have devastated various areas of Indonesia - especially the island of Sulawesi - and left more than 1,400 victims - ascertained so far - as well as thousands of others who have been wounded.  In addition, at this time, a volcano on Mount Soputan, on the island of Sulawesi, has begun erupting, further threatening the people who have already been exhausted by the earthquake and the tsunami.

Through the Dicastery for Integral Human Services, during this first phase of the emergency, Pope Francis has sent a contribution of $100,000 to assist with the aid efforts being extended to those beloved people.

This sum is intended as an immediate expression of the spiritual closeness and paternal encouragement of the Holy Father for the people and the areas that have been affected.  The funds will be distributed through the Apostolic Nunciature throughout the areas that have been most severely affected by this catastrophe.

In his Angelus greeting last Sunday, 30 September, Pope Francis prayed for the people who have been affected by these disasters: for the dead, who unfortunately have been numerous, for those who have been wounded and for those who have lost their homes and their work.  May the Lord console and support the efforts of those who are trying to help.

The contribution that has been forwarded by the Dicastery for Integral Human Development, which accompanies the prayers of the Holy Father for the beloved Indonesian people, is part of the assistance that is being offered by the Catholic church and which involves many charitable organizations in addition to various Episcopal Conferences.