The Pope Expresses His Solidarity and Prayers in the Wake of the Earthquake in Colombia

In a telegram In a message signed by the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Pope Leo XIV has sent his condolences and prayers for the victims, all those injured and affected, and the entire Colombian people, following the earthquake that struck the country on Monday.

The text of the telegram reads as follows: “The Holy Father, deeply moved upon learning the painful news of the earthquake that has severely affected several areas of Colombia, causing deaths and numerous injuries, as well as serious material damage, including to many churches, offers prayers for the eternal rest of the deceased, and offers his prayers to the Lord for the speedy recovery of those affected by this tragedy.”.

Cardinal Parolin also asks the president of the Colombian Bishops“ Conference to convey ”the heartfelt condolences of His Holiness Leo XIV to the families who, in this hour of deep sorrow, are mourning the loss of their loved ones.”.

Likewise, the Vatican Secretary of State assures the Pope’s “spiritual closeness” and “expresses his gratitude to all those who, with generous dedication, are working to search for, rescue, and assist the victims.”.

Ask for the gifts of strength and hope

Finally, “through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary,” the Holy Father “asks the Lord to pour out upon the beloved people of Colombia the gifts of spiritual strength and Christian hope, and he cordially imparts his apostolic blessing to them.”.

Monday's earthquake in Colombia, a month and a half after Venezuela, has so far left around 130 dead, more than 500 injured, and numerous people missing.

The figure does not include the deaths and injuries reported in surrounding municipalities and towns, where buildings have also collapsed and hospitals, airports, public services, and transportation systems have sustained damage.

The Church in Colombia: One Family in the Face of Adversity

The Colombian Episcopate has stated He also expressed his solidarity with the victims of the 7.4-magnitude earthquake and called for a response to the emergency based on solidarity, responsibility, and fraternity. 

Cardinal Luis José Rueda Aparicio, the nation’s primate, has called on people to turn this tragedy into an opportunity to “rebuild ourselves from the heart” and overcome divisions.

As it happens, just four days ago, the new president of the Republic, Abelardo de la Espriella, took office for the 2026–2030 term.