Pope Prays for the Cyclone Victims of Sardinia

Vatican City, 20 Nov 2013: Pope Francis during his General Audience on Wednesday in St. Peter’s square prayed for the victims of Cyclone Cleopatra in the Italian island of Sardinia. ‘At this time we cannot forget the victims of the recent flooding in Sardinia’, said the Pontiff, adding ‘we pray for them and for their families and we stand in solidarity with those who have suffered damages.’ The Pope then invited the audience to pray in silence for ‘the brothers and sisters of Sardinia’.

Earlier, on Tuesday evening, Pope Francis sent a message of support and encouragement to the people of Sardinia, who suffered loss of life and property after a cyclone hit the island region. The message addressed to Archbishop Arrigo Miglio, president of the bishops' conference of Sardinia, and sent through Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, read: “The Pontiff learned with trepidation the news of the storm that hit this land of Sardinia, causing floods and loss of human life, injuries and huge damage and hardship for many families.’

Offering everyone his affectionate word of comfort and encouragement, Pope Francis assured a particular remembrance in prayer for those who lost their lives and for all the people affected by the grave calamity. The Pontiff hoped that they would experience solidarity and the necessary aid to face this difficult moment, and he imparted a special apostolic blessing.

Meanwhile, Italian authorities have declared a state of emergency on the island of Sardinia after a Cyclone killed 17 people and caused widespread flooding. Cyclone Cleopatra tore through the island leaving death and destruction in its wake. The force of the storm caused rivers to burst their banks. Source: VR Sedoc