Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, asked the faithful of the Archdiocese to pray for the people of Turkey as they cope with the devastation caused by this week's earthquake. "We must pray for the victims as well as for the survivors," Cardinal Bevilacqua said. "I extend my prayers and deepest sympathy to the people of Turkey."

Government officials in Turkey confirm that 10,000 people have died and 45,000 are injured. United Nations officials report that the death toll could reach as high as 40,000, which would make this the deadliest quake ever in Turkey. There are also growing fears of diseases such as typhoid and cholera due to the unsanitary conditions.

"I ask all people of good faith to join with me in prayer for the family members of those who were killed and who are still missing. We must also pray for and do all that we can to assist those who have been injured as well as those who are in need of food, water and shelter," said Cardinal Bevilacqua. "The immensity of this tragedy grows every day. We pledge our support to the people of Turkey."

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Cathy Rossi
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