Pope urges solidarity with Turkey quake victims

Pope Benedict XVI launched an appeal for aid for quake victims in Turkey on Wednesday, at the end of a Liturgy of the Word with faithful on the eve his pilgrimage to Assisi. Speaking in Italian he said: “At this time, our thoughts turn to the people of Turkey hard hit by the earthquake, which has caused heavy loss of life, many missing and extensive damage. I invite you to join me in prayer for those who have lost their lives and to be spiritually close to the many people who have been sorely tried. May the Almighty support all those engaged in rescue work”.

The official death toll from the weekend's earthquake in eastern Turkey continues to climb toward 500, as rescue efforts continue. Officials say more than 1 thousand people were injured in the 7.2-magnitude quake, and thousands more need temporary shelter and humanitarian aid. There have been a few bright moments in the rescue operation: a grandmother, a mother and her 2-week-old baby girl are among the survivors that have been pulled from the rubble. The latest official toll of 459 victims, however, is expected to rise. Listen