Faith helps in times of disaster, says Pope
Faith can be helpful during catastrophes like the Indian Ocean tidal waves by reminding sufferers of God’s continued presence, Pope John Paul II said today.
“Faith teaches us that even in the most difficult and painful trials, as in the disasters which struck in these days southeast Asia, God never abandons us,” John Paul said, speaking from his studio window overlooking St Peter’s Square, where thousands of tourists and pilgrims were gathered.
The Pontiff has made repeated appeals for assistance for the victims of the tidal waves that struck beach resorts and villages along the Indian Ocean coast in several Asian countries.
On New Year’s Eve, the Pope celebrated a special Mass in his private chapel to pray for the tens of thousands who perished in the disaster, as well as for survivors and aid workers.
