A 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck eastern Indonesia's Flores region on Saturday, August 15, 2026, killing at least 68 people (latest Death Toll) and displacing thousands. A separate, deep 6.9-magnitude earthquake hit North Sumatra hours later on Saturday afternoon but caused no major damage. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has expressed his "spiritual solidarity and closeness" to those affected by the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara region on August 15.
In a Vatican telegram sent by Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin to Archbishop Paulus Budi Kleden of Ende, the Pope shared his deep sadness over the disaster, which has left at least 68 dead, 135 injured, and 13,000 homeless across the region—destroying over 900 homes and nearly 170 public buildings.
Commending the deceased to God's mercy, Pope Leo offered prayers of strength and consolation for the displaced and injured while encouraging ongoing relief work by civil, religious, and emergency personnel.
Summary: Vatican Expresses Solidarity Following Indonesia Earthquakes
Papal Message: Pope Leo XIV sent a telegram via Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin to Archbishop Paulus Budi Kleden of Ende offering prayers and spiritual solidarity.
Tragic Impact: The 7.7-magnitude earthquake (and subsequent 6.9 aftershock in Sumatra) left 68 dead, 135 injured, and 13,000 displaced.
Widespread Damage: Over 900 homes were destroyed, and 167 public facilities—including schools, health centers, and churches—were left unusable.
Support for First Responders: The Pope prayed for emergency responders and commended ongoing humanitarian and civil recovery efforts.
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