Pope prays for dead, offers consolation for grieving in Indonesia

A man inspects a village destroyed by a strong earthquake in Kayangan, Lombok Island, Indonesia on Aug. 6, 2018. AP

Pope Francis has expressed great sadness over the loss of life and destruction of property caused by Indonesia’s quakes.

In a telegram Monday, Francis also offered his “heartfelt solidarity” for those affected.

The message said he was praying for the souls of the dead and for “the consolation of all who grieve the loss of their loved ones.” Francis also invoked “divine blessings of consolation and strength” upon Indonesia’s people.

Francis offered encouragement to rescuers and others assisting victims.

An earthquake Sunday killed at least 98 people, including some who perished inside buildings that had been weakened by an earlier July 29 quake on the tourist island of Lombok. Rescuers haven’t reached all of the devastated areas and there are fears the death toll could climb.

READ: At least 98 dead after quake rocks Indonesian tourist island

National Disaster Mitigation Agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho says the death toll from the Lombok earthquake has risen to 98 from the previously announced 91.

Officials have been saying the number of deaths would increase as rescuers reach cut-off areas in north Lombok.

The ruins of a mosque that collapsed in Lading-Lading village while people prayed inside was being pulled apart by a backhoe in search of victims.
Photos and video from the disaster agency showed Sunday’s night quake had reduced the mosque to a mound of rubble. /ee