Archbishop Diarmuid Martin has announced that there will be a special collection at all Masses in the Archdiocese of Dublin on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th February to contribute to relief assistance and the reconstruction in Haiti.
While most of the collection will go towards relief work it is hoped it will also be possible to provide support for parishes and religious institutions which have been destroyed. This can be done through some religious communities which have Irish links.
Mass goers in Dublin will be informed of the collection this weekend and are being asked to give their support generously on the weekend of the 6th and 7th.
Cardinal Seán Brady, Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland said his prayers were with those coming to terms with losing family members and friends in the disaster.
"I ask for special prayers to be offered for the injured so that they may find the courage to rebuild their lives, and, that we remember in our prayers those who have died in Haiti due to this catastrophe. "
He also asked for prayers of support to those providing emergency assistance and medical treatment to the injured and displaced.
Appeals for aid
Trócaire has also appealed for funds to help those affected by the earthquake. To donate, visit trocaire.org or call 1850-408408 (NI: 0800-9121200).
Concern Worldwide, which has been working in Haiti since 1994, has launched an emergency appeal following the earthquake.
Donations will be accepted on 1850-410510 or through concern.net.
People can donate to Oxfam by calling 1850-304055 (NI 0800-0304055), by visiting oxfamireland.org, or at their local Oxfam Ireland shop.
GOAL has allocated €250,000 from its emergency fund as an immediate response and is accepting donations from the public. Call 01-2809779 or visit goal.ie.
UNICEF Ireland launched an emergency appeal this morning for the children of Haiti. Donations can be made securely at unicef.ie or by calling 01-8783000.
The Irish Red Cross launched an emergency appeal also, donations are being accepted online at redcross.ie or by calling 1850 50 70 70.
