By OSV News
In the wake of the early morning collapse March 26 of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Washington Cardinal Wilton Gregory has offered his prayers for those who were killed or missing in the disaster and for rescue and recovery workers.
“The people of the ADW join our prayers for those who have been injured or killed in the tragic accident at the Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge. We pray for families who have lost loved ones & all 1st responders. The Lord comfort & protect them,” the cardinal tweeted.
The 1.6 mile-long bridge that spans the Patapsco River collapsed about 1:30 a.m. after the Singapore-flagged container ship Dali, headed to Sri Lanka, collided with the structure. The bridge which forms part of I-695, buckled upon impact, plunging several individuals into the river.
According to state officials, two people were rescued from the water after the complete collapse of the structure. One was transported to a hospital and the other refused treatment. AP reported that by late morning six people remained unaccounted, and all are believed to have been working on the bridge at the time repairing potholes.
Earlier, Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore issued a statement urging the faithful to petition the Lord “to grant consolation and strength as we cope with this terrible tragedy.”
Here is the complete text of Archbishop Lori’s statement:
“I am saddened, as you are, to learn of the tragic incident overnight that led to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge over the Baltimore harbor. Pray with me for all involved, especially the victims traveling over the span at the time of impact, the construction crews on site and all of the first responders acting with urgency to rescue survivors. Let us join in prayer asking the Lord to grant consolation and strength as we cope with this terrible tragedy.”
Archbishop Lori will also celebrate a Mass at 5:30 p.m. at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Baltimore to offer prayers for all whose lives are impacted by the tragedy. The Mass will be livestreamed at https://www.youtube.com/@cathedralofmary/streams
