VATICAN CITY, DEC. 7, 2008 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI expressed his solidarity with the thousands affected by the heavy rains in southern Brazil, which have caused flooding and deadly mudslides.
After praying the Angelus today with those gathered in St. Peter's Square, the Pope expressed his "sentiments for the natural disaster that occurred a few days ago in the state of Santa Catarina, which has claimed numerous victims and left thousands of people homeless."
The tragedy was caused by torrential rains that have caused flooding and more than 4,000 mudslides. Some 122 have died and more than 1.5 million people have been evacuated.
"I call upon the protection of the Most High for all, that he might repay the Brazilian people and the national and foreign officials who have lent their assistance to the victims in this time of deep consternation," the Pontiff added.
Many localities in the state of Santa Catarina lack food and potable water and, since many of the roads have become impassible, some can only be reached by helicopter.
ZE08120704 - 2008-12-07
Permalink: http://www.zenit.org/article-24493?l=english
Flood Victims in Pope's Prayers
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