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 Father Javier López, a priest from Valencia, on Pope Francis’s message of support during recent floods**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Father Javier. Pope Francis recently expressed his solidarity with the people of Valencia following the devastating floods. How does it feel to receive such encouragement from the Holy Father during this difficult time?
**Father Javier:** Thank you for having me. It truly means a lot to us here in Valencia. Pope Francis’s message provides not only spiritual support but also reinforces our community’s resilience. His call to prayer reminds us that we are not alone in this crisis.
**Editor:** You mentioned the call to prayer. How have the communities in Valencia responded to this message?
**Father Javier:** The response has been heartfelt. Many parishes have organized prayer services, and people are coming together to support each other. It’s a testament to the strength of our faith and community spirit. We are praying not just for those affected but also for the strength to rebuild.
**Editor:** It sounds like the community is coming together. Can you share some specific ways the Church is helping those impacted by the floods?
**Father Javier:** Absolutely. We are coordinating relief efforts, providing food and shelter to those displaced, and offering counseling services for those traumatized by the events. The solidarity we’ve seen from neighboring regions and even international partners has been incredible.
**Editor:** That’s inspiring to hear. Lastly, what message would you like to convey to those outside of Valencia who may want to help?
**Father Javier:** I would say that every prayer counts. Additionally, both financial support and material donations are invaluable. Anyone looking to help can reach out to local charities, as these contributions directly aid those suffering the most. Together, we will rise from this adversity, guided by our faith and compassion.
**Editor:** Thank you, Father Javier, for your insights and for the work you’re doing in Valencia. Our thoughts are with you and your community during this challenging time.
**Father Javier:** Thank you for raising awareness and for your prayers. They mean the world to us.
