The Pope prays for the victims of the earthquake in Croatia

Pope Francis offered condolences and prayers for the victims of an earthquake that shook central Croatia.

"I express my closeness to the wounded and people affected by the earthquake, and I pray in particular for those who have lost their lives and for their families," the Pope said on 30 December before concluding his weekly general audience.

According to the Reuters news agency, the 6,4 magnitude earthquake struck on December 29 and caused widespread damage. It destroyed at least two villages about 30 miles from Zagreb, the Croatian capital.

As of December 30, seven people were known to have died; dozens of wounded and many other people missing.

The powerful shock, felt as far as Austria, was the second to hit the country in two days. A 5.2 magnitude earthquake hit central Croatia on December 28.

In a video message posted on YouTube, Cardinal Josip Bozanic of Zagreb launched an appeal for solidarity with the victims.

"In this trial, God will show a new hope that becomes especially evident in difficult times," Bozanic said. “My invitation is to solidarity, especially with families, children, young people, the elderly and the sick”.

According to Sir, the news agency of the Italian Bishops' Conference, Bozanic would have sent emergency aid to those affected by the natural disaster. Caritas Zagreb will also provide assistance, especially to Sisak and Petrinja, the cities most affected.

"Many people have been left homeless, we have to take care of them now," the cardinal said