On behalf of all Catholics in central and northern Missouri, the Diocese of Jefferson City is sending $10,000 to the earthquake relief efforts in Turkey and Syria.
“The Diocese of Jefferson City offers our prayers for everyone impacted,” said Bishop W. Shawn McKnight. “We ask God to send his help and comfort as the people of Turkey and Syria work to recover from this tragedy.”
The 7.8 magnitude earthquake rocked the two countries Feb. 6.
According to The Associated Press, the death toll had risen more than 40,000 and about 75,000 others were injured.
“As we offer our prayers, we also send this gift of financial support, which comes from all Catholics in our diocese through our work to live out a spirituality of stewardship,” said Bishop McKnight.
“We have a commitment to help all those in need, and we hope our sacrifice can make a positive impact in Turkey and Syria as recovery efforts continue,” he stated.
Catholics who wish to send additional individual contributions are encouraged to donate to Catholic Relief Services (crs.org) or the Catholic Near East Welfare Association (cnewa.org).
OSV News Service contributed information for this article.