April 6, 2009 - Pope Benedict reacted quickly to an earthquake that struck central Italy during the morning hours of April 6 with a sorrowful telegram to the families of victims.

According to the telegram, the Pope’s heart was filled with “consternation” at the magnitude of the disaster, and assured the people of his prayers for the dead and injured, especially children.

Benedict told the survivors of the earthquake to carry on with hope and thanked those working to rebuild the damaged area.

JMB/RSS