Faith helps in times of disaster, says Pope

Faith can be helpful during catastrophes like the Indian Ocean tidal waves by reminding sufferers of God’s continued presence, Pope John Paul II said today.

“Faith teaches us that even in the most difficult and painful trials, as in the disasters which struck in these days southeast Asia, God never abandons us,” John Paul said, speaking from his studio window overlooking St Peter’s Square, where thousands of tourists and pilgrims were gathered.