Pope Leo XIV expressed his closeness to those affected by the devastating wildfires sweeping parts of France and Spain, and invited the faithful to pray for victims and emergency responders. Speaking during the Sunday Angelus on July 26 from Castel Gandolfo, the Pope said, “In light of the devastating wildfires that have affected various parts of France and Spain in recent days, I wish to express my closeness and invite everyone to pray for those who have been affected and for the tireless efforts of the emergency responders.”
The wildfires continue to force mass evacuations in southwestern France and central Spain. Fueled by extreme heat, strong winds, and prolonged drought, the blazes have threatened communities and stretched emergency services. In recent days, hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced as firefighters work to contain the fires.
Pope Leo also recalled that the Church is celebrating the Sixth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. This year’s theme is taken from the Prophet Isaiah: “I will never forget you” (Is 49:15).“Together, let us give thanks to the Lord for the gift that older people are to the Church and to society,” he said.The Pope encouraged everyone to “respect and value their precious role” and to ensure that grandparents and the elderly “always receive the care, attention and assistance they deserve.”