The Pontifical Council Cor Unum in Rome is sending US$50,000 to assist the people of Christchurch following the earthquake on February 22.

Cor Unum acts on behalf of the Pope to carry out special initiatives in the field of humanitarian actions when disasters occur.

In a message of condolence to the Roman 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”.