TELEGRAM FOR VICTIMS OF MUDSLIDE IN ITALY

VATICAN CITY, SEP 11, 2000 (VIS) - Following is the telegram sent today in the Holy Father's name by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, secretary of state, to Archbishop Antonio Cantisani, president of the episcopal conference of Calabria, Italy, where a mudslide early yesterday morning caused numerous victims and much damage:

"In the face of the dramatic events which took place in the region of Calabria following torrential rains which caused disastrous flooding and mudslides in various parts of the Ionian coast and in particular in the area of Soverato, the Holy Father charges Your Excellency to express to the families and friends of the victims his sentiments of the deepest participation in their pain for the tragic effects of this powerful natural calamity. With a heart filled with sadness, and with assurance of his fervent prayers for the repose of the souls of the deceased, the Supreme Pontiff shows great appreciation for all who in various ways are undertaking rescue operations. He asks God through Mary, comforter of the afflicted, to send comfort to the wounded and to all who suffered the consequences of this serious calamity and he sends everyone a special apostolic blessing as a special sign of his spiritual closeness."

TGR;MUDSLIDE VICTIMS;...;CALABRIA; CANTISANI;VIS;20000911;Word: 210;