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WASHINGTON(September 5, 2005)— His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, expressed his solidarity with those suffering from the impact of Hurrricane Katrina and with those working to bring them relief. After praying the Angelus on Sunday, September 4, 2005, the Holy Father said:
"In questi giorni siamo tutti addolorati per il disastro provocato da un uragano negli Stati Uniti d'America, specialmente a New Orleans. Desidero assicurare la mia preghiera per i defunti ed i loro familiari, per i feriti e i senzatetto, per gli ammalati, i bambini, gli anziani; benedico quanti sono impegnati nella difficile opera di soccorso e di ricostruzione. Al Presidente del Pontificio Consiglio Cor Unum, l'Arcivescovo Paul Josef Cordes, ho dato incarico di recare alle popolazioni colpite la testimonianza della mia solidarietà.
["In these days, we are all saddened to hear of the disaster resulting from a hurricane in the United States, especially the tragedy in New Orleans. I wish to assure my prayers for the dead and for their family members, for those who have been injured or left homeless, for the sick, the children and the elderly. I bless all those involved in the difficult task of helping to give aid and rebuilding what has been destroyed. I have entrusted to the President of the Pontifical Council Cor Unum, Archbishop Paul Josef Cordes, the task of bringing to those stricken by this tragedy the concrete witness of my solidarity. (Unofficial translation).]
"I greet all the English-speaking pilgrims at today's Angelus. In a special way our hearts turn to all those suffering the devastating consequences of Hurricane Katrina in the United States. As the extent of this tragedy unfolds I ask you to join me in praying for the victims, their loved ones and all those affected. May the grieving families experience the consolation of God's presence and rescue workers be assured of our deep concern and support."