AMERICA/CHILE - Redemptorist Church destroyed in earthquake

Santiago de Chile (Agenzia Fides) – From the newsletter of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, sent to Fides, as for the situation of the Redemptorists in Chile, we learn some information provided by Fr. Luis Fuica, CSSR., Provincial Bursar. "Our brothers escaped unharmed, but there was damage done to our foundation in Cauquenes, about 50 km from the epicenter of the earthquake. It has been a terrible experience for our 5 Redemptorists who live in this country, but they are fine, although their residence is now uninhabitable. Damage to the church and meeting areas will be estimated. Here in Santiago, we had the most damage in our Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. One of the towers was severely damaged. The damage has affected the side windows and the sacristy. Thank God, the interior of the church and the stained-glass windows have not been damaged. Outside the church, as well, there are heavy pieces of stone that have fallen on the road." (CE) (Agenzia Fides 02/03/2010)