The Pope’s closeness and prayer for the people affected by the earthquake in Ecuador that has left at least thirteen dead and 126 injured. And let us not forget to pray for the martyred Ukrainian people, who continue to suffer from the crimes of war, said the Pope at the end of the Angelus, this Sunday, 19 March 2023.

These were the words of Pope Francis after the Marian prayer, provided by the Holy See Press Office.

Pope’s words

Dear brothers and sisters!

Yesterday in Ecuador, an earthquake caused deaths, injuries and considerable damage. I am near to the Ecuadorian people and I assure you of my prayers for the deceased and for all who are suffering.

I greet all of you, people from Rome and pilgrims from many countries – I see flags: Colombian, Argentinian, Polish…many, many countries…. I greet those from Spain who have come from Murcia, Alicante and Albacete.

I greet the parishes of Saint Raymond Nonnato and the Canadian Martyrs in Rome, and that of Christ the King in Civitanova Marche; the Association of Salesian Cooperators; the boys and girls from Arcore, the confirmation candidates from Empoli and those from the parish of Our Lady of the Rosary in Rome. I greet the young people of the Immaculate, they are great!

It’s a pleasure to greet the participants in the Rome Marathon! I congratulate you because, spurred on by “Vatican Athletics” you are making this important sporting event an occasion for solidarity in favour of the poorest.

And today, we extend best wishes to all fathers! May they find in Saint Joseph a model, support and consolation to live their fatherhood well. And all together, for fathers, let us pray to the Father [Our Father…].

Brothers and sisters, let us not forget to pray for the battered Ukrainian people, who continue to suffer due to war crimes.

I wish all of you a good Sunday. Please do not forget to pray for me. Enjoy your lunch and arrivederci.