by Currents News
On Aug. 11 Pope Leo XIV sent a letter of support to the victims of the Aug. 10 earthquake in Colombia. The next day, on August 12, he expressed his solidarity with those affected. He did so during his general audience, which was held for the second time inside of St. Peter’s Basilica.
“I wish to express my closeness to our Colombian brothers and sisters who suffered the effects of the recent earthquake, which claimed many lives, injured many others, and caused extensive material damage,” the Holy Father said. “As I pray to the Lord for the eternal rest of those who have died, I assure their families and all those affected by this tragedy of my prayers. I express my gratitude to everyone working in rescue and relief efforts for those who suffer.”
During his greeting to the Polish faithful present at the audience, the pope also referred to two important dates for the country which are celebrated in August.
“Through Mary’s intercession, victory was achieved in the Battle of Warsaw on August 15th, 1920, changing the course of history for Poland and all of Europe,” he explained. “The liturgical memorial of St. Maximilian Mary Kolbe is celebrated on the eve of the Assumption. He gave his life for a fellow prisoner at the German Nazi camp of Auschwitz.”
That day, Pope Leo XIV also continued his catechesis on the documents of the Second Vatican Council. In particular, he focused his reflection on the Sacrosanctum Concilium on the Liturgical Year.