The following is the telegram of condolences for the victims of the strong typhoon in Vietnam, sent on behalf of the Holy Father Francis by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin:

Telegram

HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS WAS DEEPLY SADDENED TO BE INFORMED OF THE RECENT TYPHOON AND STORMS IN VIETNAM WHICH RESULTED IN THE LOSS OF LIFE AND WIDESPREAD DESTRUCTION, AND HE OFFERS HIS SPIRITUAL SOLIDARITY TO THE INJURED AND TO ALL THOSE SUFFERING THE CONTINUING EFFECTS OF THIS DISASTER. THE HOLY FATHER COMMENDS THE SOULS OF THE DECEASED TO THE LOVING MERCY OF ALMIGHTY GOD, AND INVOKES UPON ALL, ESPECIALLY THE CIVIL AUTHORITIES AND EMERGENCY PERSONNEL WHO ARE PROVIDING ASSISTANCE, THE LORD’S BLESSINGS OF PEACE AND CONSOLATION.

CARDINAL PIETRO PAROLIN
SECRETARY OF STATE