The Conference of European Churches has written to its members and ecumenical friends affected by deadly earthquake in central Italy that left a reported 290 people dead. 

Esteemed Church leaders,
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
Dear friends,

It is with deep sorrow that we received the news of the devastating earthquake that hit central Italy earlier this week.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Italy at this very difficult time as you seek to help the injured and the bereaved and give shelter to the homeless.

The Member Churches of the Conference of European Churches, together with all people of good will feel with deep compassion for the peoples of the Apennine region and especially the township of Pescara del Tronto. From all over Europe Christians are remembering and praying for those who have died and for those who survive to rebuild their devastated communities and families.

United in Christ,
The Rt Revd Christopher Hill, KCVO, DD
President

Very Reverend Protopresbyter Heikki Theodoros Huttunen
General Secretary