Pope prays for Mexico flood victims

By Francesca Merlo

Pope Francis on Sunday turned his thoughts to the many victims of flooding in Mexico's Hidalgo State, where over 17 people died. 

After the recitation of the Marian prayer in St Peter's Square, the Pope expressed his closeness especially to those in the Tula Hospital, and "to their beloved ones". 

Heavy rainfall on 7 September caused the Tula and Rosas rivers to break their banks in the municipality of Tula in Hidalgo State.

Flood waters swept through streets and into buildings, including the hospital of the Mexican Institute of Social Security. Flooding also knocked out power in the area including the hospital which was caring for several COVID-19 patients. 17 patients died. 

Praying for those far from home

Pope Francis then prayed for "those being unjustly held in foreign countries". He noted that unfortunately there are numerous cases, all very different and often complicated. "I hope that these people may as soon as possible return home", he said.