Pope Francis prays for victims of bridge collapse in Italy

Pope Francis said on Wednesday he is praying for all those affected by a bridge collapse in the northern Italian city of Genoa.

A section of the 45-meter high ‘Morandi’ bridge collapsed on Tuesday morning. Officials say at least 39 people died in the tragedy.

On the Solemnity of the Assumption, Pope Francis prayed that “our heavenly Mother obtain comfort, courage, and serenity for all”, especially those affected by the bridge collapse. He also entrusted the victims “to God’s mercy”.

“I express my spiritual closeness to their families, to the injured, to the displaced, and to all those who suffer as a result of this dramatic event,” the Pope said.

Pope Francis invited everyone to join him in prayer for them, and led the crowd in the recitation of the Hail Mary.

Source: Vatican News