VATICAN (CNS): “I have learned with sorrow the news of the dramatic shipwreck that happened in recent days in the Mediterranean waters where dozens of migrants including women and children have lost their lives,” Pope Francis said after praying the Angelus with visitors in St. Peter’s Square on July 28.
 
“I renew my heartfelt appeal that the international community act quickly and decisively to avoid that such tragedies are repeated and to guarantee the safety and dignity of everyone,” he.
 
The pope’s appeal came after what Filippo Grandi, of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), called “the worst Mediterranean tragedy of this year.”
 
At least 115 people were believed dead after their vessel holding about 250 people capsized near the north African coast of Libya on July 25.
 
Charlie Yaxley, UNHCR spokesperson, said the latest tragedy brings the number of migrants killed during their journey across the Mediterranean to more than 600 this year.
 
Pope Francis ended his appeal by leading those present in prayer “for the victims and their families and also, to ask from the heart, ‘Father, why?’”