The book, published by I Love The World and illustrated with photographs of the eruption, represents the largest collection of testimonies from victims of the 2021 catastrophe. The presentation took place in Tenerife, following a Mass officiated by the pontiff.
The copy was presented by Manuel Asensio, Director of Security for the Diocese of Tenerife and a native of La Palma. Asensio, who also serves as a technical writer for security plans for the papal visit, wished for the Pope to take with him a memento from the 'Beautiful Island', from which some of his ancestors originated.
“"Hopefully, these pages will serve to remember that, behind every emergency, there are people, families, and life projects that deserve to be heard, accompanied, and protected."
The book aims to be a document of exceptional value, reflecting the harsh reality experienced by individuals who lost everything: homes, businesses, and items of sentimental value. The profits generated from its sale are entirely dedicated to support actions for the affected population.
The support shown by the current pontiff's predecessor, Pope Francis, is also recalled. On several occasions, he expressed his solidarity with the victims in La Palma, especially those forced to leave their homes. Francis also acknowledged the work of young people in crisis situations like the volcanic eruption.
