Philadelphia archbishop voices 'deep sadness', prays for train derailment victims

Archbishop Charles Chaput of Philadelphia reacted Wednesday to the deadly train derailment in his city with sadness and prayers. “In the wake of this disaster, I urge all people of good will to join me in extending prayerful condolences to those mourning the sudden loss of a loved one and in asking the Lord to bring healing to all those suffering physical and emotional anguish in the wake of this incident,” Archbishop Chaput said May 13. He also prayed for first responders, emergency workers, and medical professionals who have worked to help those affected. “May God bless and protect them,” he added. The Amtrak Northeast Regional Train 188 derailed in Philadelphia on Tuesday night while carrying 238 passengers and five crew members. At least eight passengers were killed and about 200 people, including the train’s engineer, were taken to hospitals. Officials indicated the train was traveling too fast for the curve — it was going 106 mph, where the speed limit is 50 mph. Archbishop Chaput said he followed news of the derailment with “deep sadness and concern.”