Pope Leo XIV has offered prayers and expressed his closeness to the people of Indonesia following a powerful earthquake that left dozens dead, thousands displaced and widespread destruction across the country.
According to Vatican News, a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara region on Aug. 15, leaving a provisional death toll of 53 people. At least 135 others were injured, while approximately 13,000 people were left homeless.
The Holy Father responded to the disaster in a telegram addressed to Archbishop Paulus Budi Kleden, SVD, of Ende. The message was signed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
According to Vatican News, Pope Leo was “deeply saddened” to learn of the “devastation” caused by the earthquake and offered “the assurance of his spiritual solidarity and closeness to those suffering the continuing effects of this disaster, particularly for the many displaced and injured.”
The Pope’s message also turned attention to those working to help survivors and communities devastated by the disaster. He encouraged Church and government authorities “as they continue to provide humanitarian assistance” and offered prayers “for the emergency personnel engaged in recovery efforts,” according to Vatican News.
The scale of the destruction has left thousands of Indonesians facing an uncertain recovery.
Vatican News reported that the initial 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the island of Flores and was followed by numerous aftershocks. Several hours later, a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck the island of Sumatra.
According to Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency, as reported by Vatican News, more than 900 homes were destroyed and another 450 were damaged. At least 167 public buildings, including schools, healthcare centers and churches, were left unusable.
Thousands of displaced residents have since sought refuge in temporary accommodations.
Amid the devastation, Pope Leo entrusted those who lost their lives to God and prayed for consolation for grieving families and communities.
According to Vatican News, the Holy Father commended the dead “to the loving mercy of Almighty God” and invoked “the divine blessings of consolation and strength.”
The Pope’s message comes as emergency personnel, civil authorities and local communities continue recovery and humanitarian efforts following the earthquakes. For Catholics, his words also serve as a call to prayer for the dead, the injured, the displaced and all those working to bring assistance to communities affected by the disaster.
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