THE POPE CALLS FOR SOLIDARITY WITH VICTIMS OF EARTHQUAKEVATICAN CITY, DEC 29, 2004 (VIS) - At the end of today's audience, John Paul II remembered the victims of the earthquake that struck Southeast Asia on December 26 and called for solidarity with the people affected by the disaster. "The news coming from Asia," he said, "shows us ever more the extent of the catastrophe which particularly struck India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand." "The international community and many humanitarian organizations," he
continued, "have come together quickly to lend help. Numerous charitable
institutions of the Church are doing the same. In the Christmas spirit of
these days, I invite all believers of good will to generously contribute
to this great work of solidarity with the peoples, subject to such a harsh
trial and exposed to the danger of disease. I am by their side through my
prayer and affection, especially those who are injured and homeless, while
I entrust the innumerable victims who lost their life to the divine
mercy." |