L’Aquila earthquake [Corpus Christi]
Appeal for volunteers and funds
We were all shocked by the scenes of devastation and destruction in L’Aquila, central Italy, caused by the massive earthquake in April. Now, a few weeks later, the media spotlight may have moved on, but the human tragedy and suffering of those affected by the quake is still just as intense.
The plight of the parish of San Raniero in Civita di Bagno, one of the villages close to the epicentre, has been highlighted to us by two of our parishoners who are friends with the local parish priest. This entire Catholic community of 297 people is now living in one of the tent cities outside L’Aquila, their homes and church rendered uninhabitable by earthquake damage and their lives literally in ruins. This is a poor area, largely dependent upon farming and tourism for income. Whilst Italy is a reasonably wealthy country, experience has shown that those impacted by natural disasters often have to wait many years for the help they need to rebuild their lives fully. Indeed many of those whose homes were destroyed by the mudslide in Southern Italy several decades ago are still living in temporary accomodation.
St Joseph’s parish wants to do something practical to help and is launching an appeal both for funds and volunteers with a variety of building skills to help rebuild this community and in particular, its church and presbytery. The formal appeal will be launched at all Masses next Sunday (20th/21st June), but, in the meantime, if you would like more information on how you can help, please contact Felicity and Malcolm Surridge at art@malcolmsurridge.co.uk.
