Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - The Holy Father Benedict XVI sent a telegram expressing his condolences, via Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, to the President of the Bishops Conference of Myanmar, Archbishop Paul Zinghtung Grawng, for the victims recently struck by Cyclone Nargis, which hit the southern part of the country. The text reads: “Deeply saddened by news of the tragic aftermath of the recent cyclone, the Holy Father expresses his heartfelt sympathy. With prayers for the victims and their families, he invokes God's peace upon the dead and divine strength and comfort upon the homeless and all who are suffering. Confident that the international community will respond with generous and effective relief to the needs of your countrymen, His Holiness asks you to convey his solidarity and concern to the civil authorities and to all the beloved people of Myanmar. Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Secretary of State.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 7/5/2008; righe 12, parole 147)
