| From November to December, several countries across Asia and Southeast Asia have experienced catastrophic monsoons and typhoons due to an unusual overlap of weather patterns. With reports of over 1,800 dead, at least 900 people currently missing, and millions left homeless, several international agencies have spoken out on the matter and called for international support. And it seems the Papal Almoner has responded to these calls. Hearing of the emergency, Pope Leo XIV sent aid to countries most affected, including Sri Lanka, Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. In fact, Pope Leo XIV had already joined the international call for aid during his Angelus address, while also expressing his closeness and prayers to those impacted by the disasters. POPE LEO XIV I would like to express my closeness to the people of South and Southeast Asia, who have been severely tried by recent natural disasters. I pray for the victims, for the families who mourn their loss and for those who provide assistance. I exhort the international community and all people of goodwill to support our brothers and sisters of those regions with gestures of solidarity. While the devastating storms and floods are expected to continue throughout the region, Pope Leo XIV has displayed that the Vatican will be among the first to answer humanitarian calls for help. |
