As the toll of Hurricane Sandy mounts, the head of the World Council of Churches has written to regional church bodies, saying the WCC is praying for those affected and noted the work of churches to help in the recovery.

A portion of the letters sent recently was made public in a statement released by the WCC on Thursday. At least 140 people have died as a result of the storm.

"I write to assure you of the prayers of the World Council of Churches for all those who have been affected, particularly those who have lost loved ones or who now find themselves without a home," said Rev. Tveit.

He added "in this time of recovery when so many local churches are working together to offer emergency relief and support, we see a poignant reminder of how important the common witness and service of the ecumenical family is."