Pope prays for quake-struck Indonesians

By Vatican News staff writer

Pope Francis said he is saddened to learn of the tragic loss of life and of the destruction caused by the violent earthquake that has struck the Indonesian island of Sulawesi.

In a telegram sent on his behalf by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, the Pope expressed his “heartfelt solidarity with all those affected by this natural disaster and said he is praying for the repose of the deceased, the healing of the injured and the consolation of all who grieve.”

The 6.2 magnitude earthquake shook Indonesia's Sulawesi island just after midnight Friday. Scores of people have been killed and injured. Authorities are reportedly still collecting information about the full scale of casualties and damage in the affected areas. There were reports of many people trapped in the rubble of collapsed homes and buildings.

The Pope went on to assure the apostolic nuncio in Indonesia and local authorities of his prayers and encouragement to all those involved in the continuing search and rescue efforts.