Vatican City (AsiaNews) Pope Benedict XVI said he was "deeply saddened" by "the tragic consequences of the monsoon rains" that are battering India.
In a telegram signed by the Vatican Secretary of State, Card Angelo Sodano, and sent to the Archbishop of Mumbai, Card Ivan Dias, the Holy Father expressed his "profound solidarity and pastoral concern" for those affected by bad weather in and around Mumbai, in India's western state of Maharashtra.
The Pontiff said he was praying that God may "grant eternal peace to those who have died, and consolation and strength to the homeless, injured and suffering".
Finally, the Pope invoked "the divine gifts of wisdom, strength and peace upon the civil authorities and those engaged in the massive work of relief and rebuilding."
