Pope Francis wrote a telegram to the Apostolic Nuncio of the United States expressing his sorrow for the victims of the fires in Maui, Hawaii. He expressed his solidarity with the families of those who have died or are missing. He assured of them of his prayers for those who have been displaced from their homes and the volunteers who are working to alleviate the effects of the fire.
More than 50 people have died, thousands of residents have been evacuated, and the historic city of Lahaina has been destroyed. The Coast Guard has rescued a number of people who jumped into the water to escape the flames.
Some of the factors that have contributed to these fires include the drought in Hawaii, the wind from Hurricane Dora and the extreme high temperatures.
How to help
Donate to the Hawai'i Catholic Community Foundation
Donate to Catholic Charities Hawai'i Maui Relief