Archdiocese responds to Minnesota bridge collapse, holds prayer service

Minneapolis, Minn., Aug 2, 2007 / 09:02 am

Responding to the collapse of the 35 West bridge in Minneapolis during yesterday’s rush hour, the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis is holding a prayer service for the victims of the disaster. 

The prayer service is open to anyone who would like to come and pray for the victims. There will be two prayer services in the Twin Cities. The Minneapolis service will be held at St. Olaf Catholic Church downtown and the St. Paul service will be at the Cathedral of St. Paul both at noon on Thursday, August 2, 2007.

The archdiocese says prayers of thanks also will be offered for survivors and rescuers.

Local News Station KARE has reported that at least four people are confirmed dead, over 60 injured and 20 missing after an eight-lane bridge collapsed into the Mississippi River just after 6:00 p.m. yesterday.

Due to construction on the bridge, only two lanes were open at the time, which officials think will help limit the death toll from the disaster.  Minneapolis Police Chief Tim Dolan said inspectors are examining the bridge - both the collapsed portion and what is still standing - to ensure its stability before recovery workers will be allowed back into the scene.