Romanian Orthodox Metropolitan Iosif of Western and Southern Europe on Friday conveyed condolences to the families of victims of the deadly fire at the Crans-Montana mountain resort in Switzerland, which broke out on New Year’s Eve and claimed dozens of lives.
Swiss authorities have said the blaze killed at least 40 people and left 119 others injured, many of them young people and teenagers. The victims include Swiss, French, Italian and Turkish nationals, while Romanian authorities have confirmed that an 18-year-old Romanian citizen was among those who died.
In a message issued on behalf of the Romanian Orthodox Archdiocese of Western Europe, Metropolitan Iosif said prayers were being offered for the repose of the dead, for the swift recovery of the injured, and for strength and consolation for their families, as well as for medical staff caring for the victims in hospitals in Switzerland and France.
Previously, Patriarch Daniel expressed his sorrow over the tragic event assuring the victims and their families of his prayers.
Please find below Metropolitan Iosif’s full message:
Together with the clergy and faithful of the Romanian Orthodox Archdiocese of Western Europe, we convey a message of condolences to the bereaved families who are suffering in the wake of the tragic event that took place on New Year’s Eve at the mountain resort of Crans-Montana, Switzerland, when 40 people lost their lives and 119 were injured.
Among the deceased—mostly young people and adolescents, Swiss, French, Italian and one Turkish national—was also an 18-year-old Romanian.
We pray for the swift recovery of those injured in the fire, as well as for all those caring for them in hospitals in Switzerland and France.
We also beseech the Merciful God to receive the souls of those who have fallen asleep in the dwellings of the righteous, and to grant spiritual comfort to the families left behind.
† Metropolitan Iosif
Photo: Antwerpen Parish / Source: basilica.ro
