A Prayer for the Victims of the 1908 Earthquake in Sicily and Calabria

Triangular charity labels issued in 1908 to help raise money for the survivors

In memory of the victims of the earthquake and accompanying tsunami that devastated Messina, Sicily and Reggio Calabria, on December 28, 1908, we offer a prayer to the Poor Souls in Purgatory. An estimated 100,000 lives, including 90% of the inhabitants of Messina, were lost in the tragedy. May Sant’Emidio, Santa Rosalia, San Francesco di Paola, San Giorgio and the Madonna della Lettera watch over you.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.