Utah religious leaders offer support, prayers

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said it is providing counseling services to the families of the trapped miners at the request of the American Red Cross.

In a statement issued late Tuesday, the LDS Church's First Presidency said it extends its love and prayers to the miners and their families "at this time of great trial."

"We also join with others in pleading with the Lord to guide those who are working so diligently to reach the trapped men," the statement said.

The bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City is planning a special Mass for the six trapped miners and their families tonight.

"On behalf of the Catholics of Utah, I wish to express our prayerful support for the miners, their families and colleagues during this most difficult time," Bishop John C. Wester said in a statement today.

The Mass has been scheduled for 5:15 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City. Bishop Wester urged prayers for the miners, their families, rescuers and the people in Huntington affected by the Crandall Canyon Mine collapse.

"May the patron of our Huntington Mission, the Archangel Raphael, bring healing and strength to all involved," Bishop Wester said.