Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has expressed his deep sorrow and spiritual closeness to the people affected by the powerful earthquake that struck Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara region on August 15. The disaster caused widespread destruction, claimed dozens of lives and left thousands of people without homes.
The 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck the island of Flores on Saturday morning, causing severe damage to homes and public buildings. The disaster was followed by several aftershocks, adding to the fear and uncertainty among communities already struggling to deal with the initial destruction.
The provisional death toll has reached 53, while 135 people have been injured. Around 13,000 people have been forced to leave their homes and are now depending on temporary shelter and humanitarian assistance.
Pope Leo expressed his concern in a telegram addressed to Archbishop Paulus Budi Kleden, SVD, of Ende. The message was signed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin on behalf of the Pope.
In the message, Pope Leo said he was deeply saddened to learn about the devastation caused by the earthquake. He offered his spiritual solidarity and closeness to those who continue to suffer from the effects of the disaster, with particular concern for people who have been injured and those who have been displaced from their homes.
Pope also recognised the efforts of church and civil authorities working to help affected communities. He encouraged them to continue providing humanitarian assistance to people in need as rescue, relief and recovery operations move forward.
Emergency personnel have been working in difficult conditions to search damaged areas, assist injured people and provide basic necessities to displaced families. Pope Leo offered his prayers for those involved in these efforts and for all those working to bring relief to communities affected by the disaster.
The earthquake caused major damage across parts of Flores, with homes and important public facilities among the buildings affected. According to disaster authorities, more than 900 homes were destroyed, while another 450 homes suffered damage.
At least 167 public buildings were also reported to have become unusable. The affected buildings include schools, healthcare centres and churches, creating additional difficulties for communities trying to return to normal life.
The destruction of schools and healthcare facilities is expected to make recovery more difficult, particularly for families who have already lost their homes. With thousands of people staying in temporary accommodation, local authorities and aid workers face the challenge of ensuring that displaced families have access to food, clean water, medical care and safe shelter.
The earthquake also brought renewed attention to Indonesia’s vulnerability to major natural disasters. The country sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. Communities in many parts of Indonesia regularly face the threat of powerful earthquakes and other natural hazards.
Several hours after the earthquake in Flores, another powerful earthquake measuring 6.9 struck the island of Sumatra. The second earthquake added to concerns across the country, although the main devastation described in the Vatican message relates to the disaster in East Nusa Tenggara.
For families who lost relatives, homes or livelihoods, the recovery process is expected to take considerable time. Many displaced residents are facing an uncertain future as authorities assess the full extent of the damage and determine what assistance will be required in the coming days and weeks.
In his message, Pope Leo entrusted those who died in the disaster to the loving mercy of God. He also offered prayers for comfort and strength for grieving families and for everyone affected by the earthquake.
Pope’s message comes as emergency teams, local authorities, church organisations and community groups continue their efforts to support survivors. Beyond immediate rescue operations, the region will need sustained assistance to repair homes, restore damaged public facilities and help families rebuild their lives.
For those who have lost loved ones and those who are still living in temporary shelters, the coming period will remain difficult. The Pope’s expression of solidarity seeks to remind the affected communities that their suffering has not gone unnoticed and that prayers and support are being offered as they begin the long process of recovery.