Pope postpones general audience, leads Rosary for earthquake victims
August 24, 2016
Setting aside the prepared text of his weekly Wednesday general audience, Pope Francis asked the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square to join him in praying the sorrowful mysteries of the Rosary for victims of a 6.2-magnitude earthquake that struck central Italy.
“I cannot fail to express my heartfelt sorrow and spiritual closeness to all those present in the zones afflicted,” he said.
“I also express my condolences to those who have lost loved ones, and my spiritual support to those who are anxious and afraid,” the Pope continued. “Hearing the mayor of Amatrice say that the town no longer exists, and learning that there are children among the dead, I am deeply saddened.”
“I ask you to join me in praying to the Lord Jesus, Who is always moved by compassion before the reality of human suffering, that He may console the brokenhearted, and through the intercession of the Virgin Mary, bring them peace,” the Pope added.
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Further information:
- At Audience, Pope prays Rosary for earthquake victims (Vatican Radio)
- Earthquake in Italy: Live updates (CNN)
- Pope Francis General Audience 2016.08.24 (YouTube Vatican)
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