‘Having learned with great sadness of the tragic loss of life and the destruction of property caused by the earthquakes in Indonesia, His Holiness Pope Francis expresses his heartfelt solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy.’

Pope Francis on August 6, 2018 expressed this in the condolences he sent to the loved ones and victims of those affected by the earthquakes in Indonesia in these days, reported the Holy See Press Office. The 7.0-magnitude earthquake along the island’s northern coast on Sunday has left some 100 dead, more than 200 seriously injured and some 20,000 homeless.
In the message sent today, August 6, 2018, on the Pope’s behalf by Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Pope assures those suffering of his prayers, thanks those responding to the tragedy and commends the souls of those who died to the merciful love of almighty God.

The Holy Father concludes invoking upon all those who mourn, the Lord’s blessings of consolation and strength.

Following is the Vatican-provided text of the Holy Father’s telegram:

Having learned with great sadness of the tragic loss of life and the destruction of property caused by the earthquakes in Indonesia, His Holiness Pope Francis expresses his heartfelt solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy. He prays especially for the repose of the deceased, the healing of the injured and the consolation of all who grieve the loss of their loved ones. In offering encouragement to the civil authorities and those involved in the search and rescue efforts as they assist the victims of this disaster, His Holiness willingly invokes upon the people of Indonesia divine blessings of consolation and strength.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin

Secretary of State