Vatican City, Jul 24, 2018 / 09:22 am
Pope Francis Tuesday sent his condolences to victims of wildfires in Greece and flooding caused by the collapse of a hydroelectric dam in southeast Laos, expressing his "heartfelt solidarity" with those affected.
Sent through Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin July 24, Francis said he "was deeply saddened" to learn of recent wildfires in Greece, which have killed more than 60 people in the Attica region around Athens, according to the BBC.
The pope commended those who died "to the merciful love of Almighty God," invoking the consolation and strength of the Lord for the mourning and offered encouragement to civil authorities and emergency personnel in their continued rescue efforts.
At least 60 people have been killed and 100 more injured in the worst wildfires in Greece in more than 10 years.