Pope Leo XIV met at midday today with around twenty relatives of the victims of the tragic incident that occurred on New Year’s Eve in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.
Speaking to the families, the Pontiff explained that he accepted their request for an audience without hesitation.
“When I learned that some of you had asked for an audience, I accepted immediately. I said, ‘Yes, the necessary time will be found.’ I wanted at least to have the opportunity to share this moment with you. A moment which, for you, truly constitutes a testimony of your faith, a testimony of what we believe.”
Addressing the profound pain of their loss, Pope Leo XIV spoke with humility and compassion:
“I cannot explain to you, dear brothers and sisters, why you and your children were asked to face such a trial. The affection and words of human compassion that I offer you today clearly seem limited and weak. The Successor of Peter, whom you have come to meet today, tells you this with strength and conviction: your hope is not in vain, for Christ is truly risen! The Holy Church bears witness to this and proclaims it with certainty!”
At the conclusion of the meeting, the Pope invited the families to pray the Lord’s Prayer together. He then entrusted all of them to the care of the Virgin Mary, whom he described as the “Lady of Sorrow,” commending the grieving families to her maternal protection and consolation.
Source: ANA-MPA
