Vatican City, Nov 10 (EFE).- Pope Francis reiterated this Sunday his closeness to the inhabitants of Valencia (Spain) who “are facing the consequences of the floods” and asked the faithful if they had prayed for Valencia and had thought of giving some help, during the Angelus prayer overlooking Saint Peter’s Square.
«My memory for the inhabitants of Valencia and other parts of Spain who face the sequences of the floods. I will ask you a question: Have you prayed for Valencia? Have you thought about making a contribution to help these people? “It’s just a question,” Francisco said in what seemed like a call to mobilize to provide aid.
In all his recent public appearances, the pontiff has not failed to remember the Valencia floods in which more than 200 people lost their lives and caused enormous damage.
The pope began the general audience last Wednesday by praying for “Valencia that suffers so much” and offering a white rose to an image of the Virgin of the Forsaken, placed in St. Peter’s Square that, he explained, the Valencians had given him.
«I wanted to greet the Virgin of the Helpless, the Virgin who cares for the poor, the patron saint of Valencia; “Valencia, which is suffering a lot and other parts of Spain too, but Valencia which is under water and suffering,” said the pontiff.
«I wanted her to be here, the patron saint of Valencia. This small image that the Valencians themselves gave me. Today, in a special way, we pray for Valencia and other areas of Spain that are suffering from water,” he added before the start of the hearing.
Last Sunday, during the Angelus prayer, Francis again prayed for “Valencia and other towns in Spain that suffer so much these days” and asked the faithful to consider what they could do for “the people of Valencia.” EFE
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**Interview with Dr. Maria Lopez, Expert on Vatican Relations and Spanish Affairs**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Lopez. Pope Francis recently expressed his support for the people of Valencia affected by the floods. How significant is this gesture from the Pope in the context of the current situation?
**Dr. Lopez:** Thank you for having me. Pope Francis’s comments are quite significant, especially considering he took the time to address the situation publicly. It shows his deep concern for those in crisis and his commitment to social justice. The Catholic Church often plays a critical role in providing emotional and spiritual support during disasters, and this kind of statement can encourage local efforts and inspire solidarity among the faithful.
**Editor:** In light of his call for prayer, how do you think the faithful in Spain will respond to his message?
**Dr. Lopez:** Prayer is a powerful tool for many believers, especially in times of crisis. It can provide comfort and a sense of community. I expect that many Catholics in Valencia and throughout Spain will come together in prayer, not just in churches but also through community gatherings. This call to prayer can reinforce their resilience and help them feel supported during such challenging times.
**Editor:** What role do you think the Vatican can play in helping communities like Valencia recover from disasters like flooding?
**Dr. Lopez:** The Vatican can play a multifaceted role. Beyond spiritual support, it can mobilize resources and raise awareness internationally. The Church has the capacity to connect local communities with global aid organizations. Additionally, it can encourage local dioceses to set up relief programs and offer direct assistance to those affected.
**Editor:** how do you see Pope Francis’s approach to crises like this reflecting his broader mission as a leader of the Catholic Church?
**Dr. Lopez:** Pope Francis has consistently focused on themes of compassion, social justice, and environmental awareness. His approach to crises reflects his belief in the Church’s role as a servant to the marginalized and those in need. By addressing events like the flooding in Valencia, he emphasizes that the Church is a bridge between faith and action, urging not only prayer but also tangible support for those suffering.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Lopez, for your insights on this important topic.
**Dr. Lopez:** Thank you for having me.
