SW News: In response to the tragic death of thousands of people in the earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria on February 6, Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, asked American believers to pray for those affected, the victims and donate generously to those in need.

Bishop Malloy said he is praying alongside Pope Francis for the souls of those who lost their lives, for those injured and the many others suffering, and for the safety and protection of rescue workers trying to save lives.

The prelate called on the faithful to loosen their purse strings and magnanimously donate to Catholic Relief Services and the Catholic Near East Welfare Association, which are providing humanitarian relief to the displaced masses in both nations in response to these tragic circumstances. Additionally, he requested the American government to support Catholic organizations that are assisting the poor.

Separately, on February 7, Cardinal Mario Zenari, the Apostolic Nuncio to Syria, went to quake-hit Aleppo to console people impacted by the earthquake and to appeal for unity. He stated that both the world community and the war-torn country are being put to the "test of humanity" by this.

Cardinal Zenari stated that he will be traveling until Thursday, February 9, to coordinate humanitarian efforts in several areas. "There is a lot of solidarity, but it must be handled with the heart and with professional skill," he continued.

In an interview with Vatican media, the cardinal said he was most affected by speaking with a retired bishop who had survived: "He shared an apartment with his secretary, a 50-year-old priest." The bishop's lodgings survived the building's destruction. I witnessed the priest buried alive in the rubble. Years of violence have damaged these buildings, making them susceptible, said the cardinal.

When asked what the Church could do in such a dire situation, he said, "Above all, the effort is being taken to guarantee that the five loaves and two fish are divided evenly in the best possible manner." In fact, the Catholic Church has opened its parishes, churches and other institutions to shelter and feed the displaced Masses.