Pope Blesses Photo Of Sisters Killed In Annapolis Mansion Fire
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) -- It was a Christmas tree tragedy that saddened the nation: six people killed in an Annapolis mansion fire, including four children. Now the pope is sending a special gift just in time for Mother's Day.
Rick Ritter spoke with the family priest.
Day in and day out, we see so many tragedies across the country. Pope Francis was moved by this one specifically, and felt compelled to try and help.
Almost four months later, the scene is still devastating; the wounds still fresh.
"Unfortunately, you'd love to have a magic wand to fix everything," said Father Andy Aaron, pastor for Boone family.
Surrounded by a dark cloud of smoke, the Boone family now embraces a lone bright spot from Pope Francis himself.
"When you know good people are suffering, you just want something good to happen to them," said Father Andy.
On January 19, Don and Sandy Pyle, their four grandchildren--Lexi and Katie Boone and their cousins Wes and Charlotte--were inside their Annapolis estate when a Christmas tree caught fire, engulfing the mansion in flames.
Medical reports show the six died inside the home from smoke inhalation and burns.
The impact of the tragedy--felt all the way in Rome, where Pope Francis blessed a photo of the children and a statue of Jesus--both for the Boone family.
"It's nice to see that the pope is reaching out, doing something," said neighbor Stephanie Hopkins. "And it's amazing it made it that far across the country."
Family pastor Andy Aaron says it comes at a desperate time of need, sending a sign...
"I think Pope Francis is giving us a sign that church is about reaching out and love to people who are going through difficulties," Father Andy said.
...To a family trying to piece their lives back together.
"I think it really gives a sense that God's at work, even though life is sometimes very difficult," said Father Andy.
Father Andy Aaron says the family already received the photo, statue and a letter signed by the pope, and that it was a family friend who made the pope aware of the tragic fire.
A scholarship fund was established in memory of the children at the Severn School in Severna Park. Donations may be made to the Boone Family Fund to support students at the lower school.
Checks may be made to Severn School, 116 Maple Avenue, Severna Park, MD 21146.
