CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy, AUG. 19, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI is sending Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone to bring aid to victims of the earthquake in Peru and convey the Pope's personal concern for their situation.
In the Holy Father's greeting to those gathered at the papal summer residence of Castel Gandolfo to pray the Angelus today, he assured the victims of the Peruvian earthquake that "the Church is with you."
At least 540 people died in Wednesday's magnitude-8 earthquake. More than double that number were injured.
"In these days our thoughts and our prayers are turned constantly to the people of Peru, who have been stricken by a devastating earthquake," the Pontiff said. "For the many who have died, I invoke the peace of the Lord, for those who have been injured, I ask for quick recovery, and for those thrown into miserable circumstances I assure you that the Church is with you, in spiritual and material solidarity."
Benedict XVI added: "My secretary of state, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, who for some time had planned a visit to Peru, in the next few days, will, in person, bring the testimony of my sentiments and the concrete help of the Holy See."
ZE07081908 - 2007-08-19