Pope appeals for support for earthquake victims

Pope Benedict appealed for "swift and generous" aid for all those affected by the earthquake which devastated South Asia on Saturday. Speaking during his Sunday audience in St Peter's Square yesterday, he told pilgrims: "It was with deep sadness that I learned of the earthquake, which caused such great damage and loss of life in Pakistan, India and Afghanistan." The Holy Father said he was entrusting the dead "to God's loving mercy" and expressed condolences to the injured and bereaved. He said: "I pray that the international community will be swift and generous in its response to the disaster, and I ask the Lord to grant courage and strength to those involved in the task of rescue work and reconstruction." Source: VIS