Pope Sends Condolences to the Philippines

(17 Feb 06 - RV) The following telegram was sent Friday by the Vatican's Secretary of State:

Dear Bishop Cantillas,

Deeply saddened by news of the tragic landslide which has destroyed the village of Guinsaugon, the Holy Father offers fervent prayers for those who have died and he invokes divine consolation upon those who mourn. He prays that the relief effort will be swift and generous in its response to the disaster and asks the Lord to grant courage and strength to all involved in the task of caring for those who have lost their homes. Entrusting you and your people to the protection of Mary, Comfort of the Afflicted, he cordially imparts his Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of strength and peace in the Lord.

CARDINAL ANGELO SODANO SECRETARY OF STATE