UCA News
Contribute

Pope prays for victims of earthquake in Croatia

The magnitude 6.4 quake struck Dec. 29, causing widespread damage and destroying at least two villages
Pope prays for victims of earthquake in Croatia

People help cleaning rubble next to damaged buildings in Petrinja, some 50kms from Zagreb, after the town was hit by an earthquake of the magnitude of 6,4 on December 29, 2020. (Photo: Damir Sencar / AFP)



 

Published: December 31, 2020 02:03 AM GMT
Updated: December 31, 2020 02:13 AM GMT

Pope Francis offered condolences and prayers for the victims of an earthquake that rocked central Croatia.

"I express my closeness to the injured and to those affected by the earthquake, and I pray in particular for those who have lost their lives and for their families," the pope said Dec. 30 before concluding his weekly general audience.

According to the Reuters news agency, the magnitude 6.4 quake struck Dec. 29 and caused widespread damage. It destroyed at least two villages about 30 miles from Zagreb, the Croatian capital.

As of Dec. 30, seven people were known to have died; dozens were injured and many more people remained missing.

The powerful quake, which was felt as far as Austria, was the second to strike the country in two days. A magnitude 5.2 earthquake hit central Croatia Dec. 28.

In a video message posted on YouTube, Cardinal Josip Bozanic of Zagreb appealed for solidarity with the victims.

"In this trial, God will show a new hope that becomes especially evident in difficult times," Cardinal Bozanic said. "My call is for solidarity, especially with the families, children, youth, the elderly and the sick."

According to SIR, the news agency of the Italian bishops' conference, Cardinal Bozanic allocated emergency aid to those affected by the natural disaster. Caritas Zagreb will also provide assistance, especially in Sisak and Petrinja, the hardest-hit towns.

"Many people have been left homeless, we must deal with this now," the cardinal said.

Help UCA News to be independent
Dear reader,
Lent is the season during which catechumens make their final preparations to be welcomed into the Church.
Each year during Lent, UCA News presents the stories of people who will join the Church in proclaiming that Jesus Christ is their Lord. The stories of how women and men who will be baptized came to believe in Christ are inspirations for all of us as we prepare to celebrate the Church's chief feast.
Help us with your donations to bring such stories of faith that make a difference in the Church and society.
A small contribution of US$5 will support us continue our mission…
William J. Grimm
Publisher
UCA News
Asian Bishops
Latest News
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia