Pope Francis Prays for Victims of Devastating Myanmar-Thailand Earthquake

Pope Francis has expressed his sorrow and solidarity with the people of Myanmar and Thailand following a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake on March 28. 

In a telegram, he offered prayers for the deceased and assured his spiritual closeness to all affected.

The pope also acknowledged the efforts of emergency personnel, praying for their strength and perseverance as they care for the injured and displaced. 

The earthquake struck around noon local time (06:00 GMT), followed by four strong aftershocks. Myanmar has suffered extensive damage, with rescue workers warning of a rising death toll that could reach the hundreds. Overwhelmed, a major hospital in Naypyidaw is treating hundreds of wounded outside its premises. Authorities have declared a state of emergency in six regions, with urgent calls for blood donations.

In Thailand, the tremors caused a high-rise building to collapse in Bangkok, killing three construction workers and injuring dozens. Officials report that 81 people remain trapped under the rubble, and the capital has been declared a disaster area. 

Myanmar is already facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with over three million people displaced due to ongoing conflict. The earthquake has further complicated aid efforts in an already fragile region. 

Tremors were also felt in China’s Yunnan and Sichuan provinces, causing injuries and structural damage. Other neighboring countries, including Cambodia, Bangladesh, and India, reported seismic activity. 

As the world watches the tragedy unfold, Pope Francis joins the faithful in prayer for the victims.  Humanitarian organizations are mobilizing aid, despite the difficult circumstances, to save lives and provide relief.