Thursday, March 10, 2011

Pope donates $67,000 to Christchurch

Pope Benedict is donating $US50,000 ($NZ67,700) to assist people affected by the Christchurch earthquake.

The money is being sent by the Pontifical Council Cor Unum in Rome which acts on behalf of the Pope to carry out special initiatives in the field of humanitarian actions when disasters occur.

It is sending $US50,000 to assist the people of Christchurch following the earthquake on February 22.

In a message of condolence to the Catholic Bishop of Christchurch, Bishop Barry Jones, the Pope expressed his sadness at the "sudden devastation and loss of life in the city of Christchurch," his "spiritual closeness to everyone who has been affected," and his "condolences to the families of all who mourn the loss of loved ones".

The official death toll from the quake stands at 166.