Pope Leo XIV has expressed his spiritual closeness and condolences following a devastating fire that broke out during New Year’s celebrations in the Alpine resort town of Crans-Montana, Switzerland, leaving around 40 people dead and more than 110 injured.
In a telegram sent after the tragedy, the Holy Father conveyed his compassion to the victims and their families through a message signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. According to Vatican News, the Pope said he “prays to the Lord to welcome the deceased into his dwelling of peace and light, and to support the courage of those who suffer in their hearts or in their bodies.” He also entrusted all those affected to the intercession of Mary, adding, “May the Mother of God, in her tenderness, bring the comfort of faith to all those affected by this tragedy and keep them in hope,” according to the same source.
The fire erupted shortly after midnight on January 1 at an Alpine bar known as Le Constellation in Crans-Montana. Civil authorities have said the cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Among the victims were Swiss citizens as well as Italian and French nationals, and reports indicate that some of those involved were as young as 16 years old, according to Vatican News.
The local Church has joined in mourning. The Diocese of Sion released a statement expressing shock and deep sorrow, noting that “what should have been a night of celebration turned into a terrible catastrophe for hundreds of people,” according to Vatican News. The diocese offered prayers for the victims and gratitude for first responders, medical personnel, and civil authorities who rushed to assist those affected.
On a national level, the Swiss Bishops’ Conference also voiced its solidarity with the victims, their families, and rescue workers. In a statement signed by its president, Bishop Charles Morerod, the bishops said they were “deeply shocked by the violence of this catastrophe” and emphasized that churches across the country are open as places of prayer, comfort, and support, according to Vatican News.
As a visible sign of mourning and unity, the bishops announced that church bells in the Diocese of Sion would ring on Friday evening, with parishes throughout Switzerland invited to join. The conference also organized several spiritual initiatives, including Eucharistic adoration, the recitation of the Rosary, and a Mass offered for the victims and their families. The Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Jean-Marie Lovey of Sion and concelebrated by Bishop Morerod, with representatives of the Reformed Evangelical Church also expected to attend, according to Vatican News.
As investigations continue, the Church in Switzerland and around the world remains united in prayer, asking God to grant eternal rest to those who died and healing and consolation to all who are suffering in the wake of this tragic event.
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