Vatican City, Oct 13, 2017 / 05:33 am
With more than 30 deaths caused by the various wildfires devouring swaths of California, Pope Francis on Friday sent a message voicing his solidarity with victims, and assuring his prayer for all those affected by the blazes.
"Informed of the tragic loss of life and the destruction of property caused by the wildfire in California, the Holy Father assures you of his heartfelt solidarity and his prayers for all those affected by this disaster," read an Oct. 13 letter signed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
Addressed to Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco and Archbishop José Gómez of Los Angeles, the letter assured of the Pope's closeness to "those who mourn the loss of their loved ones and who fear for the lives of those still missing."
The letter also offered encouragement to civil authorities and emergency personnel working to put out the fires and help victims of the tragedy, and extended his blessing.