In the Wake of Devastating Floods, Pope Francis Calls for Aid to Afghanistan
In a recent interview with Vatican News, Fr. Giovanni Scalese, the former Superior of the Mission ‘sui iuris’ in Afghanistan, the last priest to have been in the country, sheds light on the dire situation in the aftermath of massive floods in the region. The floods have claimed the lives of at least 300 people and left many injured, with hundreds more missing and presumed buried in the mud. Fr. Scalese discusses Pope Francis’ appeal for international aid to support the vulnerable population in Afghanistan, a plea that comes at a critical time when the country has been left ‘abandoned’ and ‘forgotten’.
Fr. Scalese, who spent nearly seven years in Afghanistan as the only active Catholic priest in Kabul, recounts the challenging conditions under which he operated as a missionary. Forced to repatriate to Italy following the Taliban’s rise to power, he reflects on the devastation caused by the recent floods, exacerbating the daily struggle for survival in a country already grappling with extreme poverty.
In response to the Pope’s call for assistance, Fr. Scalese emphasizes the urgent need for intervention from the international community, as Afghanistan grapples with the catastrophic impact of the floods. He highlights the stark contrast between the lack of media coverage on the situation in Afghanistan and the overwhelming focus on other events, underscoring the importance of breaking the ‘wall of silence’ that has enveloped the country in neglect.
Reflecting on his time as the sole priest in Afghanistan, Fr. Scalese recalls the challenges and dangers he faced on a daily basis, with the country marred by conflict and instability. Despite the hardships, he finds solace in the memory of consecrating Afghanistan to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, a gesture of hope amidst a backdrop of despair.
As Afghanistan grapples with the aftermath of the devastating floods, Fr. Scalese’s words serve as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength of the Afghan people, who continue to persevere in the face of adversity. The Pope’s plea for aid offers a glimmer of hope in a time of darkness, calling on the world to stand in solidarity with the forgotten voices of Afghanistan.
