Pope Leo XIV has offered heartfelt condolences to the victims of devastating flash floods in Texas that have claimed at least 51 lives, including young girls who were swept away while attending a Christian summer camp in Kerr County.
Speaking during Sunday's Angelus prayer at St. Peter's Square, the Pope addressed the tragedy directly, briefly switching to English to express solidarity with grieving families across the United States.
"To all the families who have lost loved ones, in particular their daughters who were at summer camp in the disaster caused by the flooding of the Guadalupe River in Texas in the United States, we pray for them," the Holy Father said.
The Pope's remarks come as rescue efforts continue amid fears of renewed flash flooding. Torrential rains sent the Guadalupe River surging over eight meters (26 feet) in less than an hour early Friday morning, washing away cabins and overturning vehicles in what officials have described as one of the worst flood disasters in Texas history.
BenriNews reports that dozens remain unaccounted for, including 27 girls who had been participating in overnight activities at Camp Mystic, a Christian retreat center located near the river's banks.
The Archdiocese of San Antonio released a separate statement on Friday, calling for continued prayers and solidarity, describing the floods as "historic" and urging the faithful to support those affected.
"It is our prayer that those impacted by the floods will find the strength to rebuild," the Archdiocese said. "We pledge to be with the people in these challenging circumstances. Let us answer Christ's call to love one another."
Pope's Wider Message of Peace
In his wider Angelus message, Pope Leo also renewed his call for global peace, highlighting the suffering caused by conflicts worldwide.
"Dear friends, peace is the desire of all peoples, and it is the painful cry of those torn apart by war," he said in Italian. "Let us ask the Lord to touch the hearts and inspire the minds of government leaders, that they might replace the violence of weapons with the search for dialogue."
The Pope praised pilgrims making their way through Rome's Holy Doors despite the summer heat and offered encouragement to all seeking rest and renewal.
"In the great heat of this period, your journey to cross the Holy Doors is even more courageous and admirable," he said.
Pope Leo concluded by announcing he would be spending a brief period of rest at Castel Gandolfo, the papal residence outside Rome, and wished others a restorative vacation period.
"May this be a time that restores both body and spirit," the Pope said.
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