Venezuela’s bishops lament oil refinery explosion

August 28, 2012

The bishops of Venezuela have issued a statement following an oil refinery explosion in Amuay that has left 48 dead, injured more than 80, and damaged over 200 homes.

As they prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased, the officers of the bishops’ conference said that “we want to convey our words of consolation and Christian solidarity to all those affected by this unfortunate event.”

Pope Benedict XVI joined the Venezuelan bishops in mourning the victims of the tragic accident, sending a message of condolence to “the whole civil and ecclesial community of Venezuela” and promising his prayers for the deceased and those who mourn them.

“May the faith in Jesus Christ, Lord of life, the physician of souls and bodies, support them in their grief and grant peace that only he can offer,” the bishops added.

 

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Further information:

• Comunicado De La Presidencia De La CEV Ante Los Trágicos Acontecimientos Ocurridos En La Refinería De Amuay (CEV)
• The Bishops' pain for the explosion in the refinery in Amuay that caused 41 deaths (Fides)
• New tank burns at Venezuela refinery; death toll rises (CNN)
• Pope: condolences to Venezuela after refinery accident (Vatican Radio)