Pope Leo XIV expressed his sorrow and closeness to the Colombian people after the earthquake that severely affected several areas of the country and left a growing number of victims, injured, and significant material damage. The message was sent on August 11 to the Archbishop of Cartagena and President of the Colombian Episcopal Conference, Monsignor Francisco Javier Múnera Correa, I.C.M., and is signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Vatican.
In the telegram, the Pontiff expressed being “deeply saddened” by the tragedy and assured his prayers for those who have lost their lives and for the affected people. He also referred to the damage caused by the earthquake, which even affected numerous temples.
The earthquake, which occurred on August 10, had a magnitude of 7.4 and primarily struck western Colombia. Emergency efforts continue this Tuesday in different areas while rescue teams are searching for people who remain missing. Reuters reported that the provisional toll reached at least 164 dead, with severe damage concentrated in cities like Cali, Pereira, and Manizales.
The Pope entrusts the victims and their families
In light of the magnitude of the tragedy, Pope Leo XIV requested that his condolences be conveyed to the relatives who are experiencing the loss of their loved ones.
The telegram states that the Holy Father offers prayers for the eternal rest of the deceased and raises his prayers for the swift recovery of those who were affected by the disaster.
The Pope's concern also extends to the communities that have suffered material damage. The message explicitly mentions the destruction caused by the earthquake, including the damage recorded in churches, spaces that for numerous communities represent places of gathering, prayer, and pastoral life.
Recognition for those who search and help
In the midst of the emergency, the Holy Father also dedicated some words of recognition to those participating in the response efforts. The Pontiff expressed his gratitude to “all those who generously” work in the tasks of searching, rescuing, and assisting the affected individuals.
The expression acquires special relevance as the rescue operations continue. According to Reuters, police, military, and volunteers are participating in the search for survivors, while some hospitals have had to treat patients in outdoor spaces due to the damage caused by the earthquake.
AP reported, for its part, that more than 1,600 buildings were damaged and 61 were completely destroyed, although the damage assessment continues, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The emergency has also generated a complex situation in several communities, where family members continue to search for information about people whose whereabouts are unknown.
“Spiritual strength and Christian hope”
The papal message concludes with an invocation to the Virgin Mary. Pope Leo XIV asks that, through her intercession, the Lord grant the Colombian people “the gifts of spiritual strength and Christian hope.”
The Pope finally imparts his apostolic blessing to the Colombian people, as a sign of spiritual closeness of the universal Church in one of the most painful moments the country is going through.
The message from Pope Leo XIV invites us to maintain prayer for those who suffer and recognizes, at the same time, the effort of those who are working to save lives and support the affected communities.
Telegram from Pope Leo XIV.pdf
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