Fire

The Canadian government’s website, says the base — located some 130 miles east of the Alberta province capital of Edmonton — is “one of the busiest” in Canada.

“Through the services of both the diocesan and national Caritas organizations, the Church is doing its utmost to stand by these bereaved families.”

Pope Leo XIV offered prayers as firefighters continue to battle massive wildfires in Spain and France that have forced hundreds of thousands to evacuate from their homes.

The fire started June 22 and has grown rapidly due to high temperatures, strong winds and extremely dry vegetation conditions. It is the sixth largest in the history of the …

This journey takes them from Genesis to the beginnings of the Church, through Christ’s death on the cross, symbolized by the crown of thorns.

“Be assured” of Christ’s “closeness,” the pope said. “He is not distant from what you are experiencing” but “shares it and carries it with you.”

“This evening should have been a moment of celebration and coming together, but it turned into a nightmare,” said a government official.

“We earnestly ask for Your mercy and compassion on all the deceased, granting them rest,” the diocese asked God in a prayer proposed to all parishes.

Firefighters saved the historic cathedral in Cordoba, Spain, Aug. 8, after flames and smoke were seen billowing from the iconic mosque-turned-church.

California wildfires, the SEEK25 conference and the appointment of the new archbishop of Washington are among top headlines at OSV News this week — listen to more stories in our …