PAPAL TELEGRAM FOR FLOODS IN VENEZUELA

VATICAN CITY, DEC 18, 1999 (VIS) - Given below is the text of a telegram sent, in the Pope's name, by Cardinal Secretary of State Angelo Sodano to Archbishop Leonardo Sandri, apostolic nuncio in Venezuela, for the floods that have recently devastated that country:
"The Holy Father John Paul II, profoundly grieved upon hearing of the sad news of the floods and mudslides caused by torrential rain, that have provoked a great number of victims, injured and serious material damage, offers his prayers for the eternal repose of the deceased. He also entreats the Lord to grant consolation to those affected by the tragedy and to inspire in everyone sentiments of solidarity, with the aim of assisting the injured and the afflicted and of overcoming the calamity. Furthermore, His Holiness expresses his sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and his closeness to those who have lost relatives, home and goods. At the same time he encourages public bodies, institutions and men and women of good will to contribute, with a generous spirit and in Christian charity, effective aid in these difficult moments of great suffering. Moreover, he imparts a heartfelt and comforting apostolic blessing upon the beloved people of Venezuela."

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