(19 July 2005 - RV) After being informed of the devestation caused by recent flooding
in Romania the Holy Father instructed the Cardinal-Secretary of State, Cardinal Angelo
Sodano to transmit the following telegram on his behalf to Archbishop Jean-Claude
Perisset, Apostolic Nuncio to Romania: "The Holy Father continues to follow with
apprehension the drama of the Romanian people, stricken by torrential rains that have
caused mourning, devastation and serious damage in that country. "He charges Your
Excellency to inform the civil and religious authorities of his grief and his spiritual
closeness in this sad and difficult situation that has struck a nation very dear to
him. His Holiness, as he raises fervent appeals for those who have lost their lives
in the disaster, gives assurances of his prayers to the Lord recollecting those who
have suffered the death of their loved ones, who have been left homeless or forced
to abandon their property, and are now undergoing grave difficulties. "As a comfort
for these feelings, the Holy Father invokes consolation and support from the Lord
for these brothers and sisters, and sends them a special apostolic blessing as a sign
of his affection."