Pope’s message for flood victims in Brazil

(April 10, 2010) Pope Benedict XVI has expressed his condolences at the loss of life and devastation caused by rain in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro state. The rains that started on Monday have killed at least 205 people, most in mudslides that devastated poor hillside communities, and left thousands homeless in and around Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's second-biggest city. Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone sent a condolence message on the Pope's behalf to Archbishop Orani João Tempesta of Rio de Janeiro saying that after coming to learn of the grief and devastation caused to so many families in the State of Rio de Janeiro, the Holy Father wishes to assure all the local community his concern and closeness. He urged for comfort and support for the families of the dead, the injured and those who have lost their properties.