In a telegram addressed to the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, Cardinal Pietro Parolin conveys the Holy Father’s deep sadness at “the loss of life and the destruction caused by the wildfires” in Hawaii, and assures those affected by the fires of the Pope’s prayers.
By Christopher Wells
“His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and the destruction caused by the wildfires on the Hawaiian island of Maui,” reads a telegram sent by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin to the Apostolic Nuncio in the United States, Archbishop Christophe Pierre.
The telegram note the Holy Father’s “solidarity with all those suffering from this tragedy, especially those whose loved ones have died or are missing.”
The largest natural disaster in a generation
At least 53 people have been killed in the deadly fires, with thousands more displaced and in immediate need of housing, according to Hawaii Governor Josh Green. “We’re talking about the largest natural disaster of this generation in Hawaii,” the governor said, adding that the death toll is expected to rise as rescue crews search for survivors.
Thousands of people have found refuge in temporary shelters, while tourists and visitors are attempting to leave the island. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden has declared a state of emergency, and has pledged that “every asset we have will be available” to the people of Hawaii.
Prayer for victims and rescue workers
Cardinal Parolin’s telegram assured victims of the fires of Pope Francis’ prayers for those who have died, as well as for those who have been injured or displaced, “as well as for first responders and emergency personnel.”
Finally, “as a sign of his spiritual closeness,” the telegram reads, “the Holy Father willingly invokes upon all the people of Maui God’s blessings of strength and peace.”
