Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has conveyed his heartfelt condolences and spiritual support to all those affected by Storm Kristin, which swept across central Portugal this week, claiming at least six lives and leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
In a telegram signed on his behalf by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, the Pope addressed Bishop José Ornelas Carvalho, President of the Portuguese Bishops’ Conference, expressing closeness to the victims and their families.
Storm Kristin, with winds reaching 202 kilometres per hour, battered eight districts, including Lisbon, Leiria, Coimbra, Castelo Branco, Portalegre, Santarém, Setúbal, and Guarda. The severe weather disrupted electricity to nearly one million people, destroyed homes, and caused significant damage to infrastructure, leaving hundreds displaced.
Pope Leo acknowledged the suffering of the injured, the displaced, and all those affected by the storm’s devastation. He offered prayers not only for the victims but also for national and local authorities, civil and military services, and religious organizations actively involved in relief and rescue efforts.
The Pope also commended the spontaneous solidarity of citizens and the dedication of ecclesial organizations, noting that these acts of service reflect the spirit of Christian charity. He entrusted all those impacted to the intercession of Our Lady of Fátima, praying for the “balm of solidarity and the light of Christian hope” to reach the hearts of the afflicted.
Pope Leo’s message underscores the Vatican’s ongoing commitment to spiritual accompaniment and humanitarian concern, highlighting the importance of compassion, communal support, and faith in the face of natural disasters.