VATICAN CITY, AUG. 29, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI expressed his concern at what he called "irresponsible behavior" that puts lives at risk and denounced the "criminal actions" destroying the environmental heritage.
Today the Pope mentioned the "disastrous fires in Greece, Italy and other European nations," and made an appeal for prayer for the victims, before departing for Castel Gandolfo after the general audience held in St. Peter's Square.
Fires in Greece and Italy this summer have devastated the countries and killed dozens of people. Authorities blame arsonists for both blazes.
He also spoke of those affected by natural disasters, especially the floods devastating Asia.
"In the last few days, some geographical regions have been devastated by severe calamities: I am referring to the floods in some Eastern countries, as well as the disastrous fires in Greece, Italy and other European nations," he said.
"Faced with such drastic emergencies, which have resulted in numerous victims and enormous material damages, one cannot help but be worried about the irresponsible behavior of some individuals who put the safety of others at risk and destroy the environmental heritage, a precious good for all of humanity," the Holy Father added. "I unite myself to all those who rightly stigmatize these criminal actions and I invite everyone to pray for the victims of these tragedies."
More than 60 people have died in the fires in Greece over the last few days.
The monsoons in Asia have already claimed thousands of lives, especially in India, Bangladesh, Nepal, North Korea and Pakistan.
ZE07082908 - 2007-08-29