In the wake of a catastrophic earthquake that struck Morocco on September 9th, Pope Francis offered his profound solidarity with the country as it grappled with the aftermath of the natural disaster.

The Moroccan government reported a staggering toll, with more than 2,400 people losing their lives and hundreds more sustaining injuries. The U.S. Geological Survey recorded the earthquake at a preliminary magnitude of 6.8, its epicenter located near the resort of Oukaïmedene. This event marked Morocco’s deadliest earthquake in more than 50 years, leaving the nation in shock and mourning.

In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, Pope Francis issued a heartfelt telegram expressing his “prayerful communion in the face of this natural disaster.” His message conveyed both his sorrow for the loss of life and his support for the nation as it confronted this immense challenge.

During the Angelus prayer on the following Sunday, Pope Francis called upon the faithful worldwide to join him in prayer for the people of Morocco who were affected by the earthquake. His words emphasized the importance of solidarity and compassion in times of crisis.

Pope Francis shared, “I wish to express my proximity to the dear people of Morocco, stricken by a devastating earthquake. I pray for the injured, for those who have lost their lives – so many! – and for their relatives. I thank the rescue workers and those who are working to alleviate the suffering of the people; may concrete help on the part of everyone support the population at this tragic time: let us be close to the people of Morocco!”

The response to this tragedy extended beyond the Vatican. The Archdiocese of Rabat, recognizing the need for collective prayer and support, encouraged Catholics through a Facebook post to “pray with Our Lady of Morocco for the victims and their families.”

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