Rapid demographic changes and the fear of the unknown may explain the anxiety of many U.S. Catholics.

The aid will go to "faith-based and private organizations" to help those who are persecuted in the region, according to Vice President Mike Pence.

The city was damaged by five months of occupation by terrorists.

“Christians are called to promote political dialogue, especially where it is threatened and where conflict seems to prevail,” the pope stated.

During the first weeks after Hurricane Maria, the church's delivery of aid was extremely difficult because it had to be done by foot.