Pope Francis Offers Condolences for Train Crash in Greece and Migrant Ship Accident in Italy which Left Many Dead and Injured
On March 1, Pope Francis expressed his sorrow and offered condolences for a train crash in Greece, which killed at least 38 people and injured over 80 others.
The Pope sent a telegram on Wednesday to express his condolences for the February 28th train crash near the Greek city of Larissa, and he assured those affected of his prayers.
“Entrusting the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God, [Pope Francis] offers heartfelt condolences to the families who mourn their loved ones.”
The Pope sent a telegram on Wednesday to express his condolences for the February 28th train crash near the Greek city of Larissa, and he assured those affected of his prayers.
“Entrusting the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God, [Pope Francis] offers heartfelt condolences to the families who mourn their loved ones.”
On Sunday, Pope Francis addressed another tragedy in the Mediterranean Sea. Over 60 people died when their overloaded boat sank in rough seas. Addressing the faithful gathered for his Sunday Angelus, the Holy Father explained that just off the coast of Calabria in Italy, over 40 bodies, including the bodies of many children, have been recovered. The tragedy occurred at dawn on Sunday. The overloaded vessel bringing migrants from Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan smashed into rocks during rough weather. ANSA, the Italian news agency, reports 80 survivors were found on a beach; they told rescuers at least 250 people were on board the fishing boat in which they were traveling.
He also offered his blessing upon those injured in both accidents and the emergency workers who are providing assistance “as a pledge of strength and solidarity in the Lord.”
Pope Francis’ telegram to Greece was signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, and addressed to Bishop Petros Stefanou of Syros, president of the Greek Bishops’ Conference.
Several cars derailed and a few burst into flames. The train was carrying 342 passengers and 10 crew, and 2 crew were manning the freight train.
Greece’s government has declared 3 days of national mourning, and ordered flags to fly at half-mast until Friday in honor of those who died.
Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou and said, "I express my condolences to those who lost loved ones or suffered in this disaster.” She continued, “Even at this moment, a life-saving operation is going on to help those who are on this death train."
Pope Francis’ telegram to Greece was signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, and addressed to Bishop Petros Stefanou of Syros, president of the Greek Bishops’ Conference.
Several cars derailed and a few burst into flames. The train was carrying 342 passengers and 10 crew, and 2 crew were manning the freight train.
Greece’s government has declared 3 days of national mourning, and ordered flags to fly at half-mast until Friday in honor of those who died.
Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou and said, "I express my condolences to those who lost loved ones or suffered in this disaster.” She continued, “Even at this moment, a life-saving operation is going on to help those who are on this death train."
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