Crans-Montana, Pope: ‘A catastrophe of extreme violence that has struck the world’

Vatican City (Vatican), 15 Jan. (LaPresse) – ‘One of your dearest, most beloved people has lost their life in an extremely violent catastrophe, or is hospitalised for a long period, their body disfigured by the consequences of a terrible fire that has struck the imagination of the whole world. And this at the most unexpected moment, on a day when everyone was rejoicing and celebrating, exchanging wishes of joy and happiness.’ Pope Leo XIV said this when he met with a group of relatives of the victims of the New Year's Eve fire in Crans-Montana. ‘I cannot explain to you, dear brothers and sisters, why you and your loved ones have been asked to face such a trial. The affection and words of compassion I offer you today seem very limited and powerless,’ added the Pontiff.