Pope Francis prays for victims of Alabama tornado

By Francesca Merlo

Pope Francis has expressed his condolences to victims of a catastrophe that struck the state of Alabama in the United States.

In his telegram, addressed to Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi of Mobile, Alabama, the Pope expresses his “heartfelt solidarity to all those affected” by the natural disaster. The Pope prays “that Almighty God may grant eternal rest to the dead, especially the children, and healing and consolation to the injured and those who grieve”.

The tornado, which struck the small community of Beauregard, Alabama, on Sunday, claimed the lives of at least 23 people between the ages of 6 and 89, and left several others injured.

Below please find the full text of the telegram sent by the Vatican Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin on behalf of Pope Francis:

The Most Reverend Thomas J. Rodi
Archbishop of Mobile

Deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of life and the injuries caused by the tornado which struck Alabama in recent days, His Holiness Pope Francis expresses heartfelt solidarity with all affected by this natural disaster. He prays that Almighty God may grant eternal rest to the dead, especially the children, and healing and consolation to the injured and those who grieve. Upon all who are suffering the effects of this calamity, the Holy Father invokes the Lord’s blessings of peace and strength.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State