Pope
Francis on Saturday thanked once again the members of Italy’s National
Civil Protection Service, who had planned on being at the special
Jubilee Audience in St. Peter’s Square.
“My thoughts first of all go to of Italy’s National Civil Protection
Service who were supposed to be here today, but had to cancel their
participation in order to continue their precious work in giving aid and
assistance to the people affected by the earthquake on 24 August,” Pope
Francis said during his greetings to Italian pilgrims.
The earthquake hit the regions of Italy surrounding the town of
Norcia, killing nearly 300 people, mostly in the village of Amatrice.
Another 400 people were injured, and over 2000 people sought refuge in
emergency housing.
Over 4,400 people were involved in search-and-rescue operations, and
Civil Protection officials are still helping in the region, which
continues to suffer from aftershocks.
“I thank them for their dedication and the generous help offered
during this time! Thank you, brothers and sisters,” Pope Francis said.