POPE FRANCIS OFFERS PRAYERS FOR WILDFIRE VICTIMS  
January 11, 2025  |  By:   |  Press Releases  |  

In a telegram to Archbishop José H. Gomez released by the Vatican’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Pope Francis shared prayers and condolences for the victims of the wildfires in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.

The Holy Father expressed his deep sadness over the “loss of life and the widespread destruction.”

The message stated, “His Holiness Pope Francis assures you and the communities affected by this tragedy of his spiritual closeness. Entrusting the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God, His Holiness sends heartfelt condolences to those who mourn their loss. He likewise prays for the relief efforts of the emergency services personnel and imparts his blessing to all as a pledge of consolation and strength in the Lord.”

The letter from Cardinal Parolin can be found at https://lacatholics.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Message-from-Pope-Francis.pdf.

As recent wildfires have devasted many communities throughout the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Catholic parishes, schools and organizations are offering support and resources for victims of the wildfires as reported in Angelus News, the multimedia news outlet of the Archdiocese.

The Archdiocese has created a Wildfire Victims Emergency Relief Fund to help all those suffering from the recent fires and has asked parishes to hold a second collection during the month of January. The fund will provide financial support to victims of the fires for food, clothing and other needs. Those in need of assistance can contact their local parish to request a grant from the fund. Donations to help the victims of the fires can also be made online at https://lacatholics.org/california-fires/.

A list of resources and support offered by Catholic parishes, schools and ministries to help victims of the fires can be found at https://angelusnews.com/local/la-catholics/la-fires-catholic-help/. The list will be updated on an ongoing basis.

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