The Roman Catholic cathedrals of Auckland, Wellington and Dunedin tomorrow will offer Masses for those affected by the earthquake in Christchurch. More information is available at http://tiny.cc/earthquakeservices

Donations for relief and recovery work are being accepted by Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand, the New Zealand Catholic Bishops’ agency for social justice, peace and development. Funds will support the St Vincent de Paul Society and other Church agencies working with those in greatest need. More information is available at http://www.caritas.org.nz/?sid=1269

Catholic parishes around the country are also offering prayers, Masses and various forms of practical and financial support.

The Catholic Bishop of Christchurch, Bishop Barry Jones, celebrated Mass at Our Lady of Victories Parish in Christchurch last night. Around 150 attended.

 Bishop Jones described Tuesday’s earthquake as a “horrific blow” to the hope that had been growing in Christchurch and expressed the importance of prayer for victims, their loved ones and rescue workers.

“There had been a sense of hope and confidence gradually growing as we came to terms with the consequences of the big earthquake last year, and this horrific disaster is a cruel blow to that hope,” he said. 

“I pray for those who have been killed and injured, and also for those closest to them who never imagined when they last saw them that anything like this would happen.

"I am greatly moved by the courage, dedication and skill of all those who are involved in rescuing and helping victims of this tragedy and I know that they will be supported by the heartfelt prayers of many many people for their safety and protection”. 

The president of the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference, Archbishop John Dew of Wellington, reflected the sentiments of Bishop Jones.

“The bishops extend our heartfelt sympathy to those who have lost loved ones and offer our prayerful support to everyone in Christchurch, particularly those awaiting news of missing friends and family,” he said.

“We pray that God will give peace to those who have died and healing to those suffering from injury. We also pray that God will give strength to emergency workers and all who are providing help.

"While we cannot fully appreciate the fear and anxiety being experienced by those in Christchurch, we along with many others around New Zealand and overseas have you in our hearts, thoughts and prayers”.