Pope Francis sends prayers, condolences to victims of LA fires

FILE PHOTO – Pope Francis is flanked by Vatican Head Master of Ceremonies, Bishop Diego Giovanni Ravelli, right, and Master of Ceremonies, Bishop Krysztof Marcjanowicz as he presides over a mass in St. Peter’s Basilica at The Vatican on New Year’s Day, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

LOS ANGELES – Pope Francis is offering his prayers for the victims of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County, church officials said Saturday.

The pope sent a telegram to Los Angeles Archbishop José H. Gomez that was released by the Vatican’s secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.

“His Holiness Pope Francis assures you and the communities affected by this tragedy of his spiritual closeness,” the message said.

“Entrusting the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God, His Holiness sends heartfelt condolences to those who mourn their loss. He likewise prays for the relief efforts of the emergency services personnel and imparts his blessing to all as a pledge of consolation and strength in the Lord.”

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The letter from Cardinal Parolin can be found here.

The Los Angeles Archdiocese has created a Wildfire Victims Emergency Relief Fund to help all those suffering from the recent fires and has asked parishes to hold a second collection during the month of January.

The fund will provide financial support to victims of the fires for food, clothing and other needs.

Fire crews monitor the Palisades Fire in Mandeville Canyon on Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Those in need of assistance can contact their local parish to request a grant from the fund.

Donations to help the victims of the fires can also be made online here.

A list of resources and support offered by Catholic parishes, schools and ministries to help victims of the fires can be found here.

At least 5,000 structures have been destroyed, with the devastation from the Eaton and Palisades fires ranking among the worst in California history, officials said.

The massive Palisades Fire continues to grow, burning homes in Mandeville Canyon Saturday, with evacuations ordered for parts of Brentwood, Encino and Tarzana.

More than 12,000 structures remain under threat.

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