Boston Catholic Diocese To Aid Typhoon Victims

Boston Cardinal Sean O'Malley has directed Roman Catholic parishes under his leadership to take a special collection this weekend to help victims of a typhoon that has killed thousands and left some 600,000 people homeless in the Philippines.

Typhoon Haiyan struck on Nov. 8, killing at least 3,633 people, injuring 12,487 others and leaving 1,179 missing in the Southeast Asian country where 80 percent of the population is Roman Catholic.

O'Malley says he is encouraged to see some measure of assistance and supplies beginning to arrive in the affected area. He says this is just the beginning of a relief and rebuilding effort that will continue for years.

O'Malley says a special collection in Boston parishes on Saturday and Sunday will help fund the work of Catholic Relief Services aid to Philippine victims.