The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland expressed ‘deep sadness’ at the huge loss of life in Syria and Turkey caused by February’s earthquake. Two major earthquakes on February 6, the first of 7.8 magnitude and the second, nine hours later, of 7.5 magnitude, left over 45,000 people dead and over a million people homeless in freezing temperatures. There were several further aftershocks over following weeks, including one on February 20 in which another three people died. The Rt Rev Dr Greenshields said the Church of Scotland held everyone affected by the terrible tragedy in prayer and extended condolences to all those who have lost loved ones.
Dr Greenshields said: “Once again, natural disaster strikes in a place that has already seen the effects of war, climate change and economic disruption aplenty. “I am deeply saddened to learn of the huge loss of life and our hearts go out to all those whose lives have been devastated.