Christians reach out to Italian quake survivors

Christians in Italy are helping survivors of the earthquake that shattered much of the city of L’Aquila on Monday.

At least 260 people are confirmed dead, although the figure is expected to rise. Around 28,000 people have been made homeless and many are now living in tents or have no shelter.

Pope Benedict is to visit the region on Good Friday. The cost of rebuilding the town is expected to be high as many of the buildings were centuries old. Officials are currently focusing on re-opening schools in the area.

Peppo Biscarini, of Greater Europe Mission, said that they were trying to find ways to help.

“The situation is pretty chaotic there. I'm trying to work with the National Evangelistic Alliance to see what we can set up in an organized fashion," he said.

"We have had over 1,000 aftershocks since the big one on Sunday, so it's not over yet. People are somewhat nervous and open to a discussion on faith."

Biscarini said that this Holy Week, with the earthquake, people had been faced with their own mortality and were looking for answers to life’s questions.

He said, "We run a specific Bible study for the 'influencers', and a particular Countess has been invited by some peers. She always respectfully declined participation, but because of what has happened, she was actually eager to come and attend."