Pope Leo XIV said Tuesday he is praying for the dead, injured, and relatives of those affected by a powerful earthquake in Colombia [1, 2].
The pontiff's message comes as the region struggles with significant loss of life and infrastructure damage, signaling the Vatican's support for the disaster response.
Speaking during his weekly general audience at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, the pope said he expressed his solidarity "with my Colombian sisters and brothers who have suffered the effects of the recent earthquake" [1, 2]. He also sent a telegram to the nation stating he sends his "intense sadness" to the people of Colombia [3].
The disaster has caused widespread destruction across the affected areas. Reports indicate dozens of buildings have collapsed [4]. The pope said he was deeply saddened by the loss of life and the scale of the destruction [4].
Death toll estimates vary among reports. Some sources state more than 100 people died [4], while others report a higher range of at least 224 [5] to 240 people killed [6].
In addition to his prayers, Pope Leo XIV thanked the rescue workers operating on the ground. He said there is a need for global compassion as the Colombian people face the aftermath of the seismic event.
Colombian bishops have echoed the sentiment of collective support, noting that no one can face such an emergency alone [5].
“"I am deeply saddened by the loss of life and destruction following a powerful earthquake that struck Colombia."”
The Vatican's rapid response through both public prayer and formal diplomatic channels, such as the telegram, serves to mobilize international attention toward the Colombian crisis. By highlighting the role of rescue workers and the scale of destruction, the pontiff leverages his global platform to encourage continued humanitarian aid for a region facing a death toll that may exceed 200 people.
