Minnesota faith leaders pray for Turkish, Syrian earthquake victims during vigil

FRIDLEY, Minn. (FOX 9) – Folks in Minnesota are discovering energy in prayer as they consider their family and friends in Turkey and Syria.

“We’re all of us right here affected. Our Turkish and Syrian neighbors are particularly affected,” mentioned Jessi LeClear-Vachta from the Minnesota Multifaith Community.

A prayer vigil Sunday afternoon on the Turkish American Cultural Middle centered on sending constructive ideas to the opposite aspect of the world, whereas additionally recognizing individuals proper right here in Minnesota have misplaced somebody they love.

“We imagine that every one the prayers and the nice needs – they attain the victims and the survivors of the earthquake. And in addition it’s good for us. I really feel much less ache in my coronary heart,” mentioned Tolga Misirli, the chief director of the Turkish American Society of Minnesota.

The Turkish American Society of Minnesota invited leaders from a number of completely different spiritual faiths to talk on the vigil. They prayed for the victims who’ve misplaced their lives and people nonetheless buried within the rubble.

“Consolation the individuals whose members of the family and pals have died because of these earthquakes. Draw near them. Permit them to seek out consolation anew,” mentioned Shaykh Saifullah Muhammad from the NorthWest Islamic Neighborhood Middle.

The pure catastrophe brought on widespread destruction. Ahmet Turkmen, a member of the Turkish American Society of Minnesota, mentioned his household has been straight affected.

“My father-in-law is below particles, and we hope that he will probably be saved. Though six days handed,” he mentioned. 

The non-profit additionally hosted a bake sale and held a donation drive Sunday. They are going to ship the provides to the Turkish consulate in Chicago, which can ship them on to Turkey. The proceeds from the bake sale will profit aid efforts, with the hope that the communities can rebuild and survivors can start new lives.

“Among the cities, which have been very vigorous, full of individuals and filled with vehicles, are actually below particles,” Turkmen defined.

The society additionally prolonged prayers to rescue crews who’re risking their very own lives to assist others amid the aftershocks.

“I am positive the individuals in Turkey and Syria – they really feel this,” Misirli mentioned.

He mentioned the non-profit has gathered sufficient provides, however it’s nonetheless searching for financial donations. You may donate to the Turkish American Society of Minnesota through Zelle at treasurer@tasmn.org or PayPal. The society additionally beneficial donating to the aid group EMBRACE RELIEF.