Pope Prays for Strength and Comfort for People of Myanmar

(06 May 08 - RV) Pope Benedict has sent a telegram of condolences to the people of Myanmar on the tragic news of the devastating cyclone which has left an estimated 15 thousand people dead and thousands more homeless.

The telegram written on behalf of the Pope by secretary of State Cardinal Tarciso Bertone is addressed to the Archbishop of Mandalay and reads:
 
“Deeply saddened by news of the tragic aftermath of the recent cyclone, the Holy Father expresses his heartfelt sympathy. With prayers for the victims and their families, he invokes God’s peace upon the dead and divine strength and comfort upon the homeless and all who are suffering. Confident that the international community will respond with generous and effective relief to the needs of your countrymen, His Holiness asks you to convey his solidarity and concern to the civil authorities and to all the beloved people of Myanmar”