Holy See Provides 100,000 Euros in Initial Aid for Colombian Earthquake Communities

On August 12, Pope Leo XIV expressed his solidarity with the victims of the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck the western regions of Colombia on August 10. During a general audience in the Vatican, the Holy Father spoke in Spanish, offering prayers for those who lost their lives, their families, and all persons affected by the tragedy. He also expressed gratitude to those engaged in rescue and assistance efforts for the affected communities.

The Holy See has allocated an initial urgent aid of 100,000 euros to support the care of communities impacted by the earthquake. This financial support is being channeled through the Dicastery for the Service of Charity – Apostolic Penitentiary. The funds are intended to address the most urgent needs of the affected populations in the weeks following the disaster.

The resources will be sent directly to the National Secretariat of Social Pastoral-Caritas Colombia, which operates as the coordination center for the collection and distribution of aid. Caritas Colombia will manage the funds and direct them to the dioceses most affected by the seismic event. This mechanism ensures that the support reaches the local church structures responsible for immediate relief and pastoral care.

The Colombian Bishops’ Conference (CEC) has noted that the Holy See has maintained permanent communication with the local church since the first hours after the earthquake. This ongoing dialogue underscores the Vatican’s commitment to standing with the Colombian faithful during the emergency. The Pope’s message reaffirmed his closeness to the Colombian sisters and brothers suffering the consequences of the tragedy.

The allocation of funds reflects a practical response to the humanitarian crisis, aligning with the broader mission of the Church to serve those in distress. By directing resources through established ecclesial channels, the Holy See aims to ensure that aid is distributed efficiently and effectively. The initial donation is part of a broader effort to support the recovery of communities in the affected areas.

This act of mercy and solidarity resonates with the biblical call to care for those in need, as seen in Matthew 25:35, where Christ identifies with the hungry, the thirsty, and the stranger. The Church’s response to the earthquake in Colombia exemplifies the tangible expression of neighbor-love and practical compassion in times of crisis.

The Episcopal Conference of Colombia has also announced that, due to collective vacations, it will not be available to the public from December 16, 2025, to January 13, 2026. All receptions of requests or legal requirements will be reviewed starting from January 14, 2026, and the terms of response will be counted from that date. This administrative note ensures clarity for those seeking assistance or information from the CEC during the holiday period.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)