TELEGRAM FOR FLOODS IN GUATEMALA

VATICAN CITY, SEP 16, 2002 (VIS) - Made public today was the text of the telegram sent by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Secretary of State, in the Holy Father's name to Archbishop Ramiro Moliner Ingles, apostolic nuncio in Guatemala, for the floods that have had tragic consequences in the country.

"Having received the sad news of the floods that have provoked serious damage and many victims in various parts of the country, the Holy Father wishes to make present his special closeness to the victims, offering prayers for the souls and the eternal rest of the deceased and asking the Almighty to give comfort and Christian hope to all those who are suffering this adversity."

"In addition, he urges national and international institutions as well as all people of good will to intensify their solidarity and fraternal charity, bringing the necessary help to overcome the dramatic situation in which many Guatemalan families have found themselves."

At the end of the telegram, the Pope imparts his apostolic blessing "as a sign of affection to the beloved people of Guatemala who received him with so much affection during his recent apostolic visit."

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