Pope Leo XIV offers prayers after deadly Colombia earthquake

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Colombia on August 10, 2026, killing at least 132 people and injuring more than 570, according to the Colombian Association of Capital Cities. The quake, which hit in the morning with its epicenter in the northwestern department of Chocó, was described by Colombia's Geological Service as the strongest felt in the country in the last decade. The death toll is expected to change as damage assessments continue in the affected areas.

Pope Leo XIV expressed his deep sadness over the loss of life and destruction in a telegram sent August 11 to Archbishop Francisco Javier Múnera Correa of Cartagena, president of the Colombian Bishops Conference. The message, signed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, offered prayers for the deceased and for the speedy recovery of those affected. It conveyed the pope's condolences to grieving families and his gratitude to all those working in search, rescue, and assistance efforts.

The Colombian Bishops Conference issued a statement on August 10 expressing closeness to the victims and those displaced. The bishops prayed for the dead, the missing, the injured, and relief personnel, emphasizing...