At the conclusion of the Angelus on the Solemnity of the Assumption, Pope Francis called for international solidarity to alleviate the suffering in Haiti following a major earthquake that killed at least 2,100 people and wounded 10,000 as of 19 August. The following is a translation of the Pope’s words.
In the past few hours, a strong earthquake occurred in Haiti, causing many deaths and wounded, and extensive material damage. I want to express my closeness to the dear people hard hit by the earthquake. While I raise my prayer to the Lord for the victims, I extend my word of encouragement to the survivors, in the hope that the international community’s involvement may be turned towards them. May the solidarity of all alleviate the consequences of the tragedy! Let us pray together to Our Lady for Haiti. Hail Mary....