A devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck Syria and Turkey early morning on Monday, 6 February, killing more than 7,000 people and leaving behind a trail of destruction and debris.
“We express our deepest sympathy and condolences to the families and communities affected by the recent earthquakes in Syria and Turkey,” said Fr General Arturo Sosa. “Our hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones, homes, and communities. We pray for the swift and safe recovery of all those who have been injured and for the comfort of those who have been impacted by this disaster.”
Fr Antuan Ilgit SJ who is in Turkey is organising relief efforts for his parishioners in Iskenderun. Meanwhile in Aleppo, the community of three Jesuits have fled their house and joined the other residents in the cold weather. Many buildings, including hospitals and houses, have collapsed or are uninhabitable, there is a lack of electricity, and broken or very difficult connections.
Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), who is leading the Jesuit response to the disaster, has launched an appeal for funds. The Jesuit building in Aziziyé in Syria has been opened up to people looking for shelter.
Jesuit Mission Australia, in partnership with JRS Syria, has initiated a Syria Earthquake Response Appeal to provide immediate assistance to people most affected in Aleppo.
“Sustaining life and health is our immediate priority, and we will seek to reopen our health clinics once buildings are cleared by engineers later today (7 February),” said Fr Tony O’Riordan, Director of JRS Syria. “We will continue to ramp up our support of basic protection against the cold and elements for people unable to return home. Helping people remain resilient mentally will be a second priority.”
Turkey – More information and links for donations at www.amo-fme.org.
Syria – More information and links for donations at https://jrs.net/.
All Jesuit conferences, Xavier Network, NGOs and mission and development offices are aligned on this common response with the JRS. Those who wish to donate through their local Jesuit institutions may do so through these networks:
- Australia – Jesuit Mission Australia
- Austria – Jesuitenmission Austria
- Belgium – HUBEJE Belgium
- Canada – Canadian Jesuits International
- Germany – Jesuitenmission Germany
- Ireland – Irish Jesuits International
- Italy – MAGIS Italia
- South Korea: Gipum Nanum
- Spain – Entreculturas and Alboan
- United Kingdom – Jesuit Missions UK
- United States – JRS USA