PAPAL TELEGRAM FOR VICTIMS OF CONCORDE CRASH IN PARIS

VATICAN CITY, JUL 26, 2000 (VIS) - Following is the text of the telegram sent last evening in the Holy Father's name by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, secretary of state, to Archbishop Louis-Marie Bille of Lyon, president of the Conference of Bishops of France, for the crash of a Concorde plane just outside of Paris:

"Having learned of the tragic airplane accident which occurred near Paris and caused numerous victims, the Holy Father unites himself in prayer to the pain of the families, mainly French and German, who lost a dear one. He expresses his sincere condolences to them and assures his deep sympathy and his spiritual closeness to all those touched by this drama, especially the families and friends of the persons who died, members of the personnel of the airline company and all rescuers. He recommends the souls of the deceased to God's mercy, that they might know eternal rest in the peace of His Kingdom. He prays for the families of the deceased that they might be strong and find the support and assistance which they need to get through this painful trial. As a sign of his comfort, the Holy Father imparts his heartfelt apostolic blessing to all persons affected by this tragedy."

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