Following the tsunami that struck Indonesia, and in particular some districts of the islands of Java and Sumatra, necessitating the evacuation from their homes of over 16 thousand people and causing, according to as yet unconfirmed United Nations estimates, 430 deaths and almost 1500 wounded, as well as enormous material damage, Pope Francis will send a first contribution for the aid of the populations in this emergency phase, via the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development.

The contribution will accompany the prayer of the Holy Father for the beloved Indonesian population, and is part of the aid that is being activated throughout the charitable network of the Catholic Church.

The sum will be confirmed in the coming days and is intended as an immediate expression of the sentiment of spiritual closeness and paternal encouragement on the part of the Holy Father.