by Benedetto XVI

Here is the full text of the message Benedict XVI sent to Abruzzo earthquake victims, who were assembled today for the solemn funeral of 205 people who died in the quake. The message was read by the Pope’s personal secretary, Mgr Georg Gänswein, before the Mass that was presided by the Vatican Secretary of State Tarcisio Cardinal Bertone. Yesterday the earth shook again. The death toll now stands at 289. Italy’s highest political authorities were present at the funeral.

 Vatican City (AsiaNews) – In these dramatic hours when a dreadful tragedy has blighted this land, I feel spiritually present, amongst all of you. I want to share your anguish and call upon God to grant the victims eternal rest, quickly heal the wounded, and give everyone the courage to have hope and not lose heart. I have asked my Secretary of State to preside over this special liturgical celebration in which the Christian community will rally around their dearly departed for a last farewell. I entrust him, and my personal secretary, the task of personally expressing my sad participation in the bereavement of all those who are mourning the loss of their dearly beloved, swept away by this tragedy.

At times like these, faith remains a source of light and hope, especially at this moment when we remember the suffering of the Son of God who became man amongst us. May his passion, death and resurrection be a source of comfort for all, and may they open everyone’s heart so as to see a life in which “there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, (for) the old order has passed away” (Rv, 21:4).

I am sure that all of the most pressing needs shall be met thanks to everyone’s dedication. The violence of the quake has created unique difficulties. I have watched the unfolding of this devastating seismic event, which was felt at the Vatican, and favourably observed the rising tide of solidarity, which has helped the first rescue efforts and which shall be followed by more incisive action by the government as well as Church institutions and private citizens.

The Holy See shall do its part, jointly with parishes, religious institutes and lay organisations. Now is the time to act in cooperation with public agencies, which are already hard at work. Only solidarity can enable us to overcome so painful a trial.

I entrust in the Holy Virgin the people and families involved in this tragedy, and through her maternal intercession I call upon the Lord to wipe away every tear and soothe every wound as I send each one of you a special comforting Apostolic Blessing.

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