Pope sends condolences to US storm victims

Pope Benedict XVI has sent a telegram of condolence to the Bishop of Springfield-Cape Girardeau in Missouri, where earlier this week a deadly tornado struck and killed at least 122 people. Addressed to the Bishop of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, James V. Johnston, Jr., and signed by the Cardinal Secretary of State, Tarcisio Bertone, the telegram says the Holy Father has followed with deep concern the aftermath of the catastrophic tornado which struck Joplin on Sunday, and asks Bishop Johnston to convey to the entire community the assurance of his closeness in prayer.

The telegram goes on to say that, conscious of the tragic loss of life and the immensity of the work of rebuilding that lies ahead, Pope Benedict asks God the Father of mercies to grant eternal rest to the departed, consolation to the grieving, and strength and hope to the homeless and the injured. It concludes with a promise of Pope Benedict’s invocation of the divine gifts of wisdom, fortitude, and perseverance in every good upon the local civil and religious leaders, and upon all involved in the relief efforts.

St. Mary’s Catholic church in Joplin was completely destroyed, as was the parish rectory – with 70 year-old parish priest, Fr. Justin Monaghan inside – though Fr. Monaghan escaped injury. He told the Cable News Network that he had placed his fate in the hands of Providence. “I said, ‘You know, God, if for this is the way it’s meant to be’ – I said, ‘You know how much I love You.’”

St. Mary’s was not the only Catholic institution to be hit: the Catholic hospital, St. John’s Regional Medical Centre, run by the Sisters of Mercy, took a direct hit and was almost totally demolished. Reports say 5 staff members and one visitor were killed in the incident, and several others injured, while the facility’s nearly 200 patients were successfully evacuated ahead of the storms.

Severe weather has continued across the central United States all week, from Colorado, New Mexico and eastern Texas, across Missouri and into Illinois.

Listen to Chris Altieri's report: